Comparison of thermoregulation and physiological responses after swimming exercise according to age and swim cap material in women

Abstract

This study aimed to determine the factors that affect body temperature changes and physiological responses during continuous swimming according to swim cap material. Subjects included 24 women in their 20s and 40s without any relevant medical histories. The distance of the swim exercise was set at 1500m, and was completed at a pace of 40seconds per 50m using the freestyle stroke. Body temperature, skin temperature, heart rate, lactate, rated perceived exertion (RPE), and thermal sensation were measured 30 min before exercise, every 10 min during exercise, immediately after 30 min of exercise, and 30 min after recovery. Body temperature demonstrated a significant interaction effect according to swim cap material and age based on swim time (p<0.05). Skin temperature demonstrated a significant difference according to swim time (p<0.05). Heart rate was significantly different according to swim exercise (p<0.001). Lactic acid demonstrated a significant difference according to swim time (p<0.001) and interaction effect (p<0.01). RPE demonstrated a significant difference according to swim time (p<0.001), and swim time according to age (p<0.01) and interaction effects (p<0.05). Finally, thermal sensation demonstrated a significant difference over time (p<0.001). In conclusion, wearing swim caps made from a light mesh material was excellent for heat dissipation and breathability, and reduced fatigue and improved exercise performance through temperature control.