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Updated: Jul 13, 2026
08:22
A Preclinical Model of Exertional Heat Stroke in Mice
Published on: July 1, 2021
Hyperthermia and voluntary exhaustion: integrating models and future challenges
1Environmental Ergonomics Laboratory, School of Health and Human Performance, Dalhousie University, 6230 South St., Halifax, NS, Canada. stephen.cheung@brocku.ca
Summary
Research explores how high body temperature (hyperthermia) causes exercise fatigue. Two models suggest either critical temperature limits or workload regulation to prevent overheating during exercise in the heat.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Exercise Physiology
- Thermoregulation and Human Performance
Background:
- Growing interest in the direct impact of temperature, especially heat, on exercise capacity and tolerance.
- Established paradigms regarding hyperthermia's contribution to voluntary fatigue during exercise.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review recent research on two proposed models of hyperthermia and fatigue during exercise in the heat.
- To explore potential connections and integration between these two models.
Main Methods:
- Literature review summarizing key research findings.
- Analysis of two primary theoretical models: critical temperature and thermal input modulation of workload.
- Identification of critical areas for future research.
Main Results:
- Two distinct models explain exercise fatigue in heat: critical temperature impairment versus modulated self-pacing to minimize heat storage.
- Research highlights the need to bridge these perspectives for a comprehensive understanding.
Conclusions:
- Future research should focus on non-invasive brain temperature measurement, individual variability in heat response, and field applicability.
- Understanding thermoregulation failure leading to exertional heat illness and integrating physiological and psychological factors are crucial.
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