Here I am in the mountains for the holidays. I am so determined to keep working out that last night, when I got close to the cabin we are renting, I reset the trip meter in my car. '1.5 miles to this point, 1.5 back, this will be easy to do my 5k everyday!' I got up quietly and snuck out into the clean, crisp morning mountain air. It is SO COLD! I will be running I'll warm up quick. I fire up my ipod and head down the drive. Before the end of the first song was over I was gasping. I had heard that the effects of altitude were bad but it's not like I live in a valley or on a beach. In all I ran only one mile (.5 out - rest - .5 back) . I'll try again tomorrow but maybe with a new stride and a shorter goal (go .5 then come back without the rest). I'll let ya know. I'm up for any suggestions of alternate workouts as well.
Z~

Hehe, I know what you mean. This summer I had a vacation in the mountains, I think it was about 6 or 7K above sea level. It makes a BIG difference .

The altitude does make a big difference. Good for you for just getting out and attempting some exercise!

Heh, I live in albuquerque, which is high desert (anywhere form 4700-6700ft), and I'm truly, truly impressed you a) wanted to run during your holidays, and b) got as far as you did. When i first moved here, it was a challenge to walk 3 blocks! (To be fair, I came from ~200-500 above sea level.)

I can't suggest any alternate workouts, but I do want to mention: please please please drink enough water. Dehydration comes on fast and furious up here.

I used to live in the mountains at 10,000 feet. It was funny to go down to lower levels and really be able to breathe!
Just take it easy! It definitely makes it harder with the thin, cold air!

Good for you for getting out there!

When I lived at sea level and visited an area 2,000 ft. above sea level, I had a hard time running even at that change of altitude. Glad you're not giving up, but just resetting your distance. And, please, do drink that extra glass or two of water!