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What to know about running at altitude
By Sonia Alizadeh Follow
salizadeh@aspentimes.com at Aspen Times
· June 28, 2026
· 1 min read
At over 7,000 feet above sea level, running in the Upper Roaring Fork Valley can pose a significant challenge for those used to running at lower elevations.
But the answer isn’t to simply “try harder.” Science-backed reasons why exercising at high elevations is difficult also reveal strategie...
Key takeaway But the answer isn’t to simply “try harder.
Why this matters in Aspen News
For runners visiting or living in Aspen , understanding the challenges of exercising at high elevation is crucial to avoid burnout and injury. The city's location in the Elk Mountains, at nearly 8,000 feet, means that runners must adapt to lower atmospheric pressure and reduced oxygen intake. As clinical specialist Bill Fabrocini notes, it's not about trying harder, but rather about allowing the body time to adjust to the thinner air. This is particularly relevant for athletes training in Aspen, who may be preparing for events like the Aspen Marathon or other local running competitions. By prioritizing hydration, nutrition, and gradual acclimatization, runners can help their bodies adapt to the high altitude and perform at their best. With its dry climate and high elevation, Aspen poses unique challenges for runners, but with the right strategies and expertise, athletes can thrive in this beautiful and demanding mountain environment.
About this story
Original reporting by Aspen Times . Aspen News surfaces reporting from trusted publishers and adds local editorial context so readers can quickly understand what a story means for their community. We attribute every source, link to the original report, and follow a documented editorial standards policy. To understand how stories are selected and reviewed, read our about page .
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Category: local ·
Published: June 28, 2026 ·
Source: Aspen Times ·
Reading time: 1 min
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Frequently asked about this story
What is this story about? At over 7,000 feet above sea level, running in the Upper Roaring Fork Valley can pose a significant challenge for those used to running at lower elevations.
But the answer isn’t to simply “try harder.” Science-backed reasons why exercising at high elevations is difficult also reveal strategie...
When was this published? This article was first published on June 28, 2026 by Aspen Times and curated for Aspen News readers.
Who reported this story? This story was reported by Sonia Alizadeh Follow
salizadeh@aspentimes.com at Aspen Times. To learn more about how Aspen News selects and reviews stories, see our editorial standards .
Where can I find related coverage? See more local coverage from Aspen News, or browse our daily briefing and topic hubs .
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