Heat Acclimation
Original Editor - User Name
Top Contributors - Kapil Narale, Uchechukwu Chukwuemeka and Vidya Acharya
Introduction[edit | edit source]
Heat Acclimation is the body's process of adapting to the heat.
Body temperature needs to be regulated within a homeostasis value of roughly 37 degrees Celsius, since cellular structures and metabolic pathways are affected by body temperature. An increase in body temperature to 45 degrees celcius can be quite dangerous to the body, as it can lead to an inability to produce cellular energy, and lead to cellular death, and death of the organism. Therefore heat loss of the body needs to equal heat gain in the body.
The homeostasis of the body can be referred to as the human 'furnace' or 'thermostat'. THe body's temperature is relatively high, and is regulated with gradual heat loss.
Physiology[edit | edit source]
If heat loss is less than heat gained, then there is an increase in body temperature, thus body temperature rises. This is case where homeostasis needs to be maintained
Contracting skeletal muscle produce a large amount of heat, thus prolonged exercise in hot environments poses a challenge to maintaining homeostasis.
An important function of the circulatory system is to transport heat. Blood is a facilitator in transporting heat, sicne it has a high capacity to store heat.
Effects[edit | edit source]
Heat gain of the body, and thus effects of exercising in the heat, would occur when environmental temperatures are greater than skin temperatures. [1]
Exercise in the heat, for 10-14 days, at
- low-intensity, <50% VO2 max, and a long duration, 60-100 mins, or
- moderate to high intensity, 75% VO2 max, and a short duration, 30-35 mins,
results in, [1]
- increased plasma volume, blood flow, perspiration
- increased VO2 max, maximal cardiac output, power output at the lactate threshold
- reduces body temperature and heart rate responses with submaximal exercise
- reduces salt loss on sweat and the occurrence of sodium depletion
- increases aerobic fitness capacity and performance
This is the process of acclimation and helps with safeguarding against heat illnesses.
Benefits[edit | edit source]
Risks of prolonged exposure to the Heat[edit | edit source]
As mentioned on the Heat Illness in Sports page, prolonged sporting activities in the heat can cause adverse reactions, which could even result in death. It is important to recognize signs and symptoms, and prevent the onset of these illnesses rather than treat or manage the conditions. [1]
Application to Sports - Running[edit | edit source]
Resources[edit | edit source]
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