Heat Acclimation Improves Exercise Performance

摘要

This study examined the impact of heat acclimation on improving exercise performance in cool and hot environments. Twelve trained cyclists performed tests of maximal aerobic power (VO2max), time-trial performance, and lactate threshold, in both cool 13 deg C, 30% relative humidity (RH) and hot (38 deg C, 30% RH) environments before and after a 10-day heat acclimation (approximately 50%VO2max in 40 deg C) program. The hot and cool condition VO2max and lactate threshold tests were both preceded by either warm (41 deg C) water or thermoneutral (34 deg C) water immersion to induce hyperthermia (0.8 -1.0 deg C) or sustain normothermia, respectively. Eight matched control subjects completed the same exercise tests in the same environments before and after 10 days of identical exercise in a cool (13 deg C) environment.