The Cyclic Variations in Altitude ConditioningTM (CVACTM) process is a patent-pending methodology that applies rythm-based changes to pressure, temperature and air. It works within the natural/breathable atmosphere and does not employ chemical or nitrogen/oxygen separators to manipulate concentration of oxygen. A unique high-performance altitude simulator is required to deliver the CVAC process in timed exposures called CVAC sessions. 

During a CVAC session, an individual is comfortably seated in the CVAC pod. Using proprietary patterned sequences, pressure is increased and decreased to simulate low altitudes and high altitudes. As pressure increases, the volume of oxygen in the air increases--air is 'thicker,' and warmer. As pressure decreases, the volume of oxygen in the air naturally diminishes--air is 'thinner,' and cooler. We hypothesize that these changes stimulate an individual's natural adaptation response to environment. The experience is unique to the individual.

Anecdotal reports of individuals ranging from elderly adults to champion athletes who have used the CVAC process corroborate with scientific findings published in the peer-reviewed International journal, Wilderness and Environmental Medicine, 20,26 32 (2009) describing data from a study performed with athletes at the University of Hawaii. In this study, the CVAC process was shown to significantly improve the oxygen-carrying capacity of study subjects' blood, and to provide significant adaptation to high altitude in four weeks of use.

To improve performance and endurance, world-class athletes have used high-altitude adaptation and training for decades. We believe that through the use of the CVAC process, individuals of all ages and levels of activity can improve their fitness. 

Feel free to read more about this amazing piece of equipment and see the results from additional scientific studies by performing a web search titled  "Cyclic Variations In Altitude Conditioning".   You can also click on the links that we offer or better yet come try it for yourself and you be the judge.

CVAC Technology Frequently Asked Questions

How does a CVAC session feel?

Answer: You will sit down, and relax inside a CVAC pod. Fresh air will move in and out, and you may feel pressure in your ears and changes in temperature around your body. The air will feel cooler as the pressure decreases, and warmer as the pressure increases. Experiences vary--many report feeling relaxed, and others report feeling energized.

Is a CVAC pod the same as a hyperbaric chamber?

Answer: No, the two are not the same. A primary difference between the two lies in the use of los pressure (vacuum) and the use of high pressure. The hyperbaric chamber provides a high-pressure environment to flood the body with oxygen. The CVAC process involves a low-pressure (vacuum) environment.

How does the CVAC process compare to intermittent hypoxic training?

Answer: The CVAC process and intermittent hypoxic training (IHT) compare only because each methodology may be employed to potentially induce the high-altitude adaptation response. IHT involves exposure to a constant hypoxic environment. The CVAC process provides a dynamically changing environment that employs very short-duration  exposures to hypoxia. The breathed, less-dense atmosphere (fresh air) that is produces during a CVAC session is natural, and does not employ chemical means or nitrogen/oxygen separators.

CVAC Systems, Inc. recommends that you consult with a physician prior to the beginning the CVAC process or any other exercise. Contact a service provider for use restrictions.

The CVAC service is available for improved fitness only. It is not available to diagnose or treat any disease or other medical condition.

Copyright 2010. All rights reserved. Cyclic Variations in Altitude Conditioning, CVAC and CVAC logos are trademarks or registered trademarks of CVAC Systems, Inc. Other trademarks belong to otheir owners.