Mt Whitney Zone Forums General Discussion Acclimatization: how long does it last?

The question is, at what altitude are you going to spend the two days and nights before tackling Whitney? Because remaining at high altitude for those two days, even if you take it easy, would give you a big boost.

Other folks surely will chime in on your second question as well, but no, my understanding is that the body does not have some sort of physiological learning curve on altitude. Also, someone who generally is good at altitude can have a bad day, and vice versa. So many variables ... genetics, time spent acclimatizing, dehydration or lack thereof, fatigue/lack of sleep or lack thereof..... What you can do is be smart about sleep, food, water, electrolytes, acclimatization, health, etc., and thereby maximize your chances of feeling good at altitude.... And maybe consider Diamox.

P.S. That said, while I don't have a particular tendency to AMS/headaches etc. (though I do get periodic breathing at night about 11,000'), I have myself found acclimatization to be easier as I have gotten more experienced at altitude. I think that is due to subtle behavioral adaptations ... drinking the right amount, electrolytes, taking Diamox sparingly but appropriately, easy carbs/sugars that are well-timed, etc. One key thing I've learned is to hit a sweet spot on exertion -- respiration is increased, while heart is working but not beating too hard. If the heart starts going too fast, I slow down, period.