Self-perception of the ability to work in the cold

Area of Science:

• Exercise physiology
• Environmental psychology
• Human performance

Background:

• Physical exertion offers health benefits but carries cardiac risks.
• Perceptual monitoring of exertion, using cues like heart rate, is possible.
• Understanding the interplay of environmental factors and self-perception is crucial for safe exercise.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the interaction between ambient temperature and heart rate on self-perception during physical exertion.
• To determine how lowering effective temperature from the comfort zone affects perceived effort and other self-evaluations.

Main Methods:

• Two experiments were conducted: a novel game (SwedeBall) and stationary cycling.
• Participants were exposed to various temperatures (e.g., 22°C, 0°C, -7°C; 26°C, 8°C, -10°C).
• Measurements included ratings of perceived effort (RPE), thermal impression, discomfort, perceived speed, and projected endurance at different heart rates (120-160 bpm).

Main Results:

• Lower temperatures resulted in more favorable self-evaluations across multiple measures.
• Ratings of perceived effort (RPE) decreased with lower temperatures at a constant heart rate.
• Reduced temperature consistently led to more positive perceptions of thermal comfort, endurance, and speed.

Conclusions:

• Environmental temperature significantly modulates self-perception during physical activity.
• Lower temperatures enhance perceived performance and reduce perceived effort, irrespective of heart rate.
• Physiological implications exist when cold temperatures depress heart rate and alter perceived exertion.