Altitude Conversion Calculator
Predict your equivalent race performance when moving between sea level and various altitudes, or between two different altitudes.
Understanding Altitude Adjustments
This calculator is designed for middle distance and distance running events (800 meters to the marathon). It can predict an equivalent sea level race time from an altitude performance, estimate a time at altitude from a sea-level performance, or convert a time from one altitude directly to another. The calculator is intended for non-altitude trained runners (1-7 days at the origin/race altitude) and covers altitudes from 0 to 8000 feet. It uses a formula based on research by Péronnet, F. et al. (1991, January), "A theoretical analysis of the effect of altitude on running performance," to estimate the reduction in aerobic power at a given altitude for non-acclimatized athletes.
The formula applied is: % Aerobic Power = 0.178*(km)^3 – 1.43*(km)^2 – 4.07*(km) + 100, where km is altitude in kilometers.
Important Considerations
- This calculator is for non-acclimatized athletes (1-7 days at the origin/race altitude). Acclimatization significantly alters physiological responses.
- It can convert times: Altitude to Sea Level, Sea Level to Altitude, and Altitude to another Altitude.
- Individual responses to altitude can vary widely due to genetics, fitness level, hydration, and other factors.
- The formula provides an estimate. Actual performance differences may vary.
- The primary adjustment is based on reduced aerobic power. Factors like pacing strategy changes at altitude are not directly modeled.
- Ensure your race time input is accurate (minimum 75 seconds).
- For altitude-to-sea-level conversion, input altitude should be 1500-8000 feet. For other conversions, altitudes should generally be within 0-8000 feet, with the understanding that the formula is most validated for adjustments from moderate altitudes (approx. 1500ft+).