A comparative study of high-altitude training centres in South Africa: the practicality of a high-altitude training centre in the kingdom of Lesotho

Abstract

The Kingdom of Lesotho is known as the Switzerland of Africa. Its highest peak is Mont Aux Sources at 3 282m above sea level. This study compared three high-altitude training (HAT) sites in South Africa with a proposed site in Lesotho. The differences in altitude, sports, recreation and facilities of the four sites were compared, and the practicality of a site in Lesotho discussed. This site will not only offer athletes the opportunity to train at higher altitudes than in South Africa but also to engage in the ‘‘living high and training low’’ model, which is strongly advocated today. The high mountainous regions of Lesotho with its rugged beauty combined with the proposed state-of-the-art sport and recreation facilities make it an attractive site for athletes to engage in high-altitude training.