Free Breath Assessment
Free Breath Assessment

Recal’s Science-Backed Breathwork Course

Train your breathing for altitude endurance—without expensive equipment.

Explore Training Options

This course is ideal for:

  • Mountaineers and trekkers with climbs above 10,000 ft (3,000 m)
  • Ultrarunners, skiers, and cyclists preparing for altitude races
  • Sea-level athletes without access to high altitude before an expedition or race
  • Marathon runners who want to train smarter (think: a faster Zone 2 pace with more breathing control)
  • Coaches and guides to support their clients with better breathing
Two men with headlamps running up a mountain at sunset while four roped mountaineers are climbing a snowy ridge.
Man leading a breathwork training session with his hands near his diaphragm, showing the class how to breathe.

Breathwork Training for Mountain Athletes was created by Anthony Lorubbio, a multi-certified breathwork training coach and founder of Recal.

This 5-week breathwork training program is designed to improve your oxygen efficiency, endurance, and performance at altitude. It pulls from science-backed breathwork protocols in the areas of Oxygen Advantage, respiratory muscle training, intermittent hypoxic training, and other highly-researched corners of respiratory/breathwork training.

Hundreds of athletes have used our system to summit the world’s highest peaks and finish the toughest ultras.

Our B.A.S.E Framework

4 Pillars of High-Altitude Breathwork

B.

Better Breathing Mechanics

Optimize oxygen uptake -- during training and on the mountain -- with proper breathing.

A.

Adaptation Protocols

Simulate high altitude and build CO₂ tolerance (to feel less out-of-breath) with specialized protocols.

S.

Strengthen Respiratory Muscles

Build the fatigue resistance you'll need for thinner air with targeted diaphragm (and other) strength training.

E.

Elevate Your Performance

Learn protocols and proper breathing for all scenarios on the mountain.

Pick Your Breathwork Training Plan for Altitude Performance

Self-Guided

$ 75
  • PDF version of the 5-week High-Altitude Breathwork Training Course
  • Includes written and detailed descriptions of each exercise
  • Workbook PDF + TrainingPeaks App plan to stay on track
Enroll via Basecamp

Online Video Course

$ 275
  • Online video version of the 5-week high-altitude breathwork training course.
  • Week-by-week time-locked online modules to stay on track
  • Video explanations, demos, insights, and advice from Coach Anthony
Enroll via Basecamp
Most popular

Personal Coaching

Pricing Upon Request
  • The most immersive training option
  • A fully-custom, altitude-specific training plan to fit your expedition/race goals
  • Virtual 1-1 Guided coaching sessions and initial consultation included
Schedule A Call
Plans starting at $275/mo

Not sure which plan fits?

Book a free 15-minute call:
Schedule Free Call

Hear From Our Past Clients

"Thank you so much to Recal for the fantastic training. It has not only improved my adaptation to high altitudes but also made me aware and conscious of the importance of breathwork in my health. Your studies-based High Altitude Breathwork Training helped me prepare for the thin air of high altitudes while living and training in a concrete jungle - 200m above Sea Level. My eventual journey from 2300m to 6050m in just 4 days was as exciting as it was exhausting. I wouldn't recommend doing it this fast, but thanks to your training, I'm thrilled to have made it to the summit."
Umer L.
Umer L.Lahore, Pakistan → From 2,300 to 6,050 meters in 4 days, August 2024.
"I chose to participate in this training because I'm an endurance trail runner living at sea level, well versed in variable terrain and elevation gain, but unfamiliar with running at altitude. Since the training, I've seen improvements in my hill climb times and the ability to catch my breath after a steep, fast climb. While training, the biggest thing I gained is the ability to increase my pace while keeping my heart rate in my Zone 2. At Leadville 100, I felt great and performed very well. I believe there's much to gain from this training, whether as a climber, runner or biker."
Joshua B.
Joshua B.Alaska, USA → Leadville 100 Colorado, USA, August 2024
“There was lots of climbing in the Bear 100 Ultra, and my breathing was great. The breathwork training prepped me for the altitude, and it established muscle memory in my diaphragm, which helped me immensely during some really gnarly climbs. The improved CO2 tolerance and respiratory muscle strength was essential to maintain a steady breath rate and recovering at the top of long climbs. This was a solid combination of mind and body training. For flatlanders like myself, this is indispensable for endurance events at altitude. Well worth the time and money.”
Gordon H
Gordon HFrom Alabama to the Bear 100 Ultra in Utah, Sep 2024
“I just got back from Bolivia and successfully climbed two 5,000+ m peaks and two 6,000+ m peaks (including Illimani). The breathwork program definitely helped. I felt less breathless than I had felt on recent climbs. The breathing techniques also helped me quickly recover during brief breaks during the ascents, as well as help me to relax each night to sleep quite well in the tents/refuges.”
Chris B
Chris BFrom Texas to Bolivia (21,122 ft / 6,438 m), July 2025
“As both a high-altitude climber and a coach preparing others for mountain adventures, I can't overstate the value of Recal's breathwork training program. The structured approach equips climbers and trekkers with the tools they need to handle the challenges of altitude. Recal’s focus on simulating elevation conditions in a safe, progressive way builds not only physical preparedness but also the confidence needed to succeed. I’ve seen firsthand how this program helps my athletes acclimatize more effectively, recover faster, and perform at their best.”
Lisa Thompson from Alpine Athletics
Lisa Thompson2nd USA Woman to Climb K2, High-altitude Mountaineer & Founder of Alpine Athletics
"In 2023 I attempted Aconcagua and failed. Before my 2024 attempt, I did Recal's breathwork training – and my experience was night and day. On the mountain, between the altitude and physical exhaustion, moments of panic could have easily spiraled out of control. Instead, I found myself leaning into the techniques I had practiced—transforming moments of fear into moments of control and composure. I also felt a big difference in my physical training leading up to it. I noticed my training become more efficient and progress being made more quickly."
Dave T
Dave TMaryland → to Aconcagua (22,831 ft / 6,959 m), Dec 2024
“My main concern was the altitude of Everest Basecamp, and I wanted to ensure at altitude myself and the trekking team would not suffer. Recal’s breathwork training really helped; the breathing techniques without a doubt helped us prepare. And not just preparation, but also when short of breath on the trek, some techniques Coach Anthony gave us to do at altitude massively helped our oxygen levels. Nobody teaches us the basics in life -- such as how to breathe. BUT now I’ve been taught this will continue to help me 24/7 at altitude or sea level! Coach Anthony was very hands on and his enthusiasm was great. Overall, this is a great service.”
Men standing in front of an Everest Basecamp sign with mountains in the background
Nigel HLondon → to Everest Basecamp (18,519 ft / 5,360 m), Oct 2024
“Peru was terrific — I completed the trek and made it to 15.2k ft. The importance of breathing only through my nose was invaluable, and I enjoyed the training videos and recommendations. I was able to breathe just through my nose for most of the trek (every once in a while I mouth-breathed, but then concentrated and reverted back to nose only). Thank you to Recal for all of your support!”
Woman with her hands up on Salkantay Pass
Kathleen MSan Diego → to Salkantay Pass Peru (15,200' / 4,630m), Sep 2024
“You can feel the difference – I did, emphatically. The base assessment scores tell a story of vast improvement for me, and beyond those numbers, the Recal High Altitude Breathwork Training Course left me with two very stark takeaways that further justify the effort it takes. First, I found new ways to enter a flow state through proper breathing and healthy pressure on my diaphragm. This undoubtedly will stay with me forever. Second, I’ll always have these exercises to turn back to and the knowledge gained throughout the course to help me prepare for future expeditions. Bring on the mountains.”
Tim Wenger
Tim Wengeras written in Matador Network article, Sep 2024
“My primary concern going into Everest Base Camp was my breathing ability. Recal’s training gave me techniques to relax and deal with altitude. When I was struggling, I thought back to what I learned, and it regulated my breathing and de-stressed my body. This high altitude breathwork training was better than any physical training I did to prepare for EBC.”
Matt G
Matt GLondon → to Everest Basecamp (18,519 ft / 5,360 m), Oct 2024
“I saw a big difference in my endurance. During training, I did the stairs in the forest as part of my weekly effort and did so with a weighted backpack – in only a few weeks, I was able to be faster and less winded after and my recovery was much better as well. On November 8, with the breathwork training under my belt, I'm proud to say I summited Mera Peak in the Himalayas.”
Jennifer F
Jennifer FChicago → to Mera Peak (21,247' / 6,476 m), Nov 2024
“Going into the climb, I was a bit concerned that I may not have been exactly where I needed from a fitness perspective but the Recal training filled any gaps I may have had. I credit the use of the tools from the program in making my climb successful and much more enjoyable than it would have otherwise been. I was also able to take what I learned in preparation for the mountains and apply it to my other lower elevation athletic activities.”
Man standing on the top of Mt. Rainier
Tim FPennsylvania → to Mt. Rainier (14,410' / 4,310 m), July 2024
“The breathwork training was a game-changer for my trip to Nepal. I never at any time had an issue with breathing, oxygen saturation levels, or mental acuity. I have since incorporated more breathwork into my own fitness training back home. Thanks to Anthony and Recal for showing me the path.”
Man standing by a lake in the Himalayas
Chris MMinnesota → to Everest Basecamp (18,519 ft / 5,360 m), Oct 2022
Breathwork training with Recal changed how I connected with Mt. Cotopaxi during my climb and also changed my relationship with my breath forever. When I awoke at 10:30 pm, one hour to start our journey up Cotopaxi, I had a headache and was concerned about my ability to climb. I quickly tested my blood oxygen levels and they were way too low. I anchored into all the training we had done to prepare and began to breathe deeply and fully. Just like we had talked about. In that moment, my blood oxygen levels jumped to 95. I was fine and ready to climb. Of the challenges on that mountain, there was not one issue with altitude or my breath. My training had prepared me to oxygenate myself as I rose in altitude."
Two men with headlamps on Mt Cotopaxi
Ron HKansas City → to Mt Cotopaxi (19,347′ / 5,897m), Feb 2024
“Your training got me up Cotopaxi. Thank you to Anthony and Recal for your commitment to taking us through this process. I'm really grateful for the training - and personally felt like, as tough as it was, the alternative of suffering the consequences of not being prepared for this climb was worse. Your commitment and dedication comes through and you are a great teacher.”
Woman on top of Mt Rainier with a gas mask on.
Catherine COntario → to Mt Cotopaxi (19,347′ / 5,897m), Feb 2024

5-Week Breathwork Course Breakdown​

Week 1​

In Week 1, you will establish your baseline breath assessments, which will help you track your progress over the 5 weeks. You will also learn foundational breathwork protocols that will be key to your training.

Week 2

Week 2 will build on the foundational breathwork exercises and incorporate more sport-specific movements (including uphill terrain)

Week 3

Week 3’s goal is to build mental resilience and acuity in the face of breathlessness. We also introduce the use of the SportsMask.

Week 4

This week brings together all three parts of your training: better breathing mechanics, adaptation protocols, and respiratory muscle training. This will be the most challenging – and rewarding – week of training.

Week 5

After four weeks of training, Week 5 takes it easy on your muscles and focuses on mental resilience, while also making one last push for hypoxic adaptation.

Final Steps

In the final days, we share tips on breathing techniques during your mountain adventure, plus Recovery Breathing protocols and exercises to combat altitude sickness. We also share the long-term benefits of breathwork for life beyond the mountain.

5-Week Breathwork Course Breakdown​

Week 1

In Week 1, you will establish your baseline breath assessments, which will help you track your progress over the 5 weeks. You will also learn foundational breathwork protocols that will be key to your training.

Week 2 will build on the foundational breathwork exercises and incorporate more sport-specific movements (including uphill terrain)

Week 3’s goal is to build mental resilience and acuity in the face of breathlessness. We also introduce the use of the SportsMask (an optional piece of equipment for training).

This week brings together all three parts of your training: better breathing mechanics, adaptation protocols, and respiratory muscle training. This will be the most challenging – and rewarding – week of training.

After four weeks of training, Week 5 takes it easy on your muscles and focuses on mental resilience, while also making one last push for hypoxic adaptation.

In the final days, you will enter the integration phase. Here, we coach you on breathing techniques to use during your mountain adventure, the Recovery Breathing protocol, and exercises to combat low oxygen levels (and altitude sickness).

We also share the long-term benefits of breathwork for life beyond the mountain.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

High-Altitude Training Basics
Why is high-altitude training important for mountaineers and endurance athletes?

High-altitude training stimulates physiological adaptations—like increased red blood cell count and improved oxygen utilization—that translate into better performance at sea level and on the mountain. By exposing your body to lower oxygen environments in a controlled way, you build resilience against fatigue and altitude sickness, so when you tackle big peaks you climb stronger and recover faster.

Who is Recal Training designed for—beginners, experienced climbers, or both?

Recal Training is built for adventurers of all levels. Whether you’re brand-new to hiking high passes or a seasoned mountaineer chasing Everest, our science-backed breathwork protocols and altitude adaptation exercises scale to your experience and fitness, helping you hit personal bests no matter where you start.

How does breathwork enhance my body’s ability to perform at altitude?

Targeted breathwork strengthens respiratory muscles, improves carbon dioxide tolerance, and fine-tunes your body’s oxygen delivery. These adaptations mean you use less energy per breath, delay the onset of fatigue, and maintain mental clarity under the thin-air stress of high elevations.

What makes Recal Training’s breathwork approach different from other altitude programs?

Unlike generic hypoxia tents or passive acclimatization plans, Recal Training combines dynamic CO₂-tolerance drills, inspiratory muscle workouts, and goal-specific assessments in one cohesive system. Our protocols are delivered in bite-sized daily modules, backed by real-time feedback, so you get faster, measurable gains without expensive hardware.

How are Recal’s training programs structured—from assessment to peak performance?

Every Recal journey begins with our free 5-minute breathwork assessment to establish your Summit-Ready Score. From there, you follow a personalized 10-day toolkit or multi-week course—each day delivers targeted drills, recovery exercises, and actionable insights to elevate your breathing mechanics and unlock peak altitude resilience.

How do I get started with Recal Training? What comes first?
  • Sign Up – Enter your email on our homepage to instantly access the free 5-minute Breathwork Assessment and discover your Summit-Ready Score.
  • Review Your Results – See personalized feedback on your breathing efficiency and altitude readiness.
  • Choose Your Program – Based on your assessment or your own goals, enroll in either our comprehensive Breathwork Courses or our bite-sized 10-Day Toolkit.
  • Begin Training – Follow our step-by-step video lessons and drills to build strength, adapt to altitude, and master high-performance breathwork.
What is the 5-minute breathwork assessment and how do I interpret my Summit-Ready score?

The 5-minute breathwork assessment measures your BOLT score, CO₂ tolerance, MBT steps, movement zones, and range of motion to calculate a 0–100 Summit-Ready Score. A higher score indicates you’re well-prepared for high-altitude exertion; a lower score highlights targeted areas for improvement through our breathwork drills.

How often should I retake the assessment to track my improvements?

We recommend retaking the breathwork assessment every 2–4 weeks to monitor your progress and fine-tune your training plan. Regular check-ins help you see tangible gains in CO₂ tolerance and respiratory strength, ensuring you stay on track as you build toward your altitude objectives.

What tools or metrics does Recal use to measure my progress?

Recal tracks key respiratory metrics—BOLT score (breath-hold time), CO₂ tolerance seconds, MBT walk-test steps, movement zone ratings, and ROM percentage—then auto-calculates your Summit-Ready Score and grade. These metrics give you clear, data-driven insights into your breathe-strength and altitude readiness.

Can I complete Recal Training sessions anywhere—at home, in the gym, or on a trail?

Absolutely. All Recal drills require no special equipment beyond your body and breath. You can follow guided breathing sessions in your living room, strengthen your respiratory muscles in the gym, or practice CO₂-tolerance walks on your favorite trail—your training adapts to wherever you are

Do I need any special equipment or apps to follow the programs?

You don’t need any fancy gadgets or special apps—just an internet-connected device and Basecamp. All of your training videos, daily drills, progress dashboards, peer support, Q&A sessions, and our entire knowledge library live in one place. Simply log into Basecamp on your phone, tablet, or laptop and follow along—no extra equipment required.

What physiological adaptations will I notice during and after training?

You’ll experience smoother, more controlled breathing, reduced breathlessness during exertion, and faster recovery after sprints or climbs. Internally, your body boosts mitochondrial efficiency and capillary density, helping you maintain higher performance at elevation.

Will Recal Training reduce my risk of altitude sickness?

By systematically improving your body’s oxygen efficiency and CO₂ buffering capacity, Recal Training can lower the severity of acute mountain sickness symptoms. While no program guarantees complete immunity, our protocols give you a personalized edge in adapting safely to thinner air.

How does Recal ensure safety and personalized follow-up throughout my journey?

Every participant is invited to a real-human check-in: within 48 hours of your assessment, one of our coaches reviews your scores and goals, offers tailored advice, and answers questions. Ongoing email support and community challenges keep you motivated and on course.

What are the pricing options for Recal’s programs?

Recal offers flexible packages to fit your goals and budget—from a free 10-minute assessment and our 10-day course to self-guided plans ($75) to online multi-week courses ($275) to personal coaching (starting at $275/mo).

Do you guarantee this training won’t give me altitude sickness?

Absolutely not.

Many factors contribute to altitude sickness (whether AMS, HAPE, or HACE), including your genetics, pre-existing health conditions, past exposure, hydration and nutrition, iron sufficiency, and others. Research is still on-going to identify all contributing factors. This breathwork training focuses on one element of this intricate puzzle — your breathing — and, with its research-backed protocols helps you train for the challenge ahead. However, no results are guaranteed.

How do I schedule a one-on-one consultation with a Recal coach?

Simply submit the contact form below, and we’ll be in touch with you. You can also visit this link to directly submit a calendar request: https://calendly.com/anthonylorubbio/initial-consultation-high-altitude-breathwork-training.