Effects of different water temperatures on rectal temperature and oxygen uptake during supine floating

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of water temperature on rectal temperature and oxygen uptake during supine floating. Eight healthy males volunteered for this study. This study was performed in a supine position at rest on land and in three water conditions (25, 30 and 35 degrees Celsius). All experiments were performed for 35 minutes. Water conditions of immersion at 25 degrees Celsius resulted in a decrease in rectal temperature and an increase in oxygen uptake. The changes in rectal temperature differed among individuals. A significant correlation was observed between changes in rectal temperature and % body fat. However, the changes in rectal temperature were affected by other factors. These data suggest that the changes in rectal temperature during immersion at 25 degrees Celsius could be affected by other factors elaborated in this paper.