Abstract: Objective: To explore the effect of "plateau-Sub plateau-plain" training mode on the aerobic ability and cardiopulmonary function of middle-and-long distance Tibetan runners who live in plateau for generations. Methods: 20 male middle distance Tibetan runners from Key amateur sports schools in Garzê Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture were randomly divided into two groups (10 in the experimental group and the rest 10 in the control group). The experimental group received a transitional training, i.e. "1 week training in plateau-2 weeks training in sub plateau-1 week training in plain", while the control group received a traditional plateau training, i.e. 3 weeks training in plateau and 1 week training in plain. After trainings, runners were arranged to take 12min running test in plateau (Kangding County, Sichuan Province), sub plateau (Luding County, Sichuan Province) and plain (Chengdu, Sichuan Province) respectively. Test indicators include the maximal oxygen uptake (VO₂ max), heart rate after exercise, blood oxygen saturation after exercise, blood lactic acid and urine protein after exercise. Physiological indicators including the serum level of CK-MB, EPO, HIF-alpha and serum testosterone and other indexes were tested when runners were in quiet state. Results: (1) All the above=mentioned indicators and 12min running scores of the two groups presented an upward trend from plateau to plain. There were significant differences in the indicators between the two groups (P<0.05). (2) After the "plateau-sub plateau-plain" transition training, the 12min running test and the VO max, post-exercise heart rate of the experimental group,as compared with the control group, increased significantly (P<0.05). The serum CK-MB, HIF- alpha and blood testosterone of the experimental group in quiet state increased markedly and there was a significant difference (P<0.05). Conclusion: As compared with the traditional training model, the plateau-subplateau-plain training model has a better promotional effect on improving the cardiopulmonary function of middle and long distance runners living in plateau and can help middle and long distance runners to adapt to the altitude loss in a faster and better way and help improve athletes’ exercise intensity and scores.

Key words: Plateau training, sub-plateau training, Tibetan middle and long distance runners, Population living in plateau for generations, cardiopulmonary function, aerobic exercise capacity