York University’s School of Kinesiology and Health Science is taking experiential learning to new heights—literally.
This summer, Associate Professors Dr. Olivier Birot and Dr. Emilie Roudier embarked on a daring alpine adventure in the French Alps, climbing Mount Olan (3564m) and Mount Aiguille (2087m) under the guidance of Hugo from guide-espritmontagne.com. Their journey wasn’t just about reaching summits—it was about bringing the science of human physiology to life.
While nearing the summit of Mount Olan, Dr. Birot experienced symptoms of acute mountain sickness, requiring an air rescue operation and helicopter winching. “For the first time I experienced the physiopathology of altitude,” he shared. “Now I will have another very personal case study to share with my students in KINE 4442 and 4443.”
The professors also ascended Mount Aiguille, a historic peak first summitted in 1492 and often referred to as the birthplace of alpinism. Their climb highlighted the integrative nature of physiology at moderate altitudes, combining cardiovascular and exercise physiology, nutrition, thermoregulation, and altitude responses.
Mount Olan (3564m) in the Ecrins mountains (left and right)
Mount Aiguille (2087m) in the Vercors Massif of the French Prealps (below)
These real-world experiences will enrich the curriculum of three advanced kinesiology courses offered at York University:
- KINE 4442 – Physiology of Extreme Environments
- KINE 4443 – Altitude Physiology
- KINE 4450 – Cardiovascular Physiology and Exercise
Students can expect firsthand insights and case studies that bridge textbook theory with the raw realities of high-altitude exploration.
For more information, visit Dr. Birot’s faculty profile and Dr. Roudier's faculty profile.