Abstract
The rise in body core temperature associated with continuous exercise in hot and humid environments is known to possess a particularly stressful challenge to the maintenance of normal body temperature and fluid homeostasis. Recent evidence has shown that internal cooling methods, such as drinking cold fluids, are able to lower core temperature and enhance endurance performance in the heat. Pre-cooling (before exercise) and per-cooling (during exercise) methods were use, as ingesting cold fluids is easily implemented on site and provides additional benefit of hydration for athletes. Therefore, this study examines the effectiveness of pre-cooling and per-cooling methods on endurance exercise towards heart rate, rectal temperature, sweat rate, and power output of athletes ingesting different types of cold fluids. 3 female high-performance cyclists were asked to complete a 30km time trial on a cycle ergometer. The familiarisation and experimental sessions were identical, however application of fluid ingestion at 4-5°C before and during exercise differs (plain water = PW, Guava juice = GJ, isotonic drink = ID). Fluid is ingested every 15 minutes during the exercise sessions. As different athletes possess different work intensities, results showed that there is no significant difference on the effects of different types of cold fluid ingestion towards thermoregulation of the body as each fluid succeeded in enhancing athletes’ performance. Therefore, it is suggested that the consumption of any types of fluid at cold temperature could help in body thermoregulation as well as enhancing continuous exercise performance.
Highlights
Under adverse climate conditions, including high temperature and humidity, heat gained from the combination of physical exertion and the hot environment can exceed the body's capacity to remove heat through perspiration
During prolonged exercise in the heat, body fluids lost as sweat must be replaced as frequently as possible to avoid dehydration and subsequent thermal injury
A total of 3 subjects were chosen from high performance, very active female cyclists, whom participated in competitive and recreational sports and endurance exercises
Summary
Under adverse climate conditions, including high temperature and humidity, heat gained from the combination of physical exertion and the hot environment can exceed the body's capacity to remove heat through perspiration. Body temperature could rise to dangerous levels (e.g., 106 degrees Fahrenheit) under these conditions during exercise lasting 12 - 16 minutes or longer, especially if the competition is preceded by a vigorous warmup that elevates the body temperature. He said liquids ingested during exercise should contain 5-8% carbohydrate and a small amount of electrolytes. Such beverages will provide a source of fuel for the working muscles, encourage drinking by enhancing taste, promote fluid retention, and will facilitate the absorption of water and glucose from the intestines. During heavy work or prolonged exercise, at least eight ounces (1 cup) of fluid should be consumed every 15-to minutes [1]
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