Interconnections between thermal perception and exercise capacity in the heat.

Area of Science:

• Exercise Physiology
• Environmental Psychology
• Neuroscience

Background:

• Exercise performance models suggest psychological factors modulate fatigue resistance.
• In hot environments, exercise capacity involves interplay between hyperthermia and thermal perception.
• Thermal receptors influence physiological responses and subjective homeostasis.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review interactions between thermal perception and exercise performance in heat.
• To explore the role of psychological factors in regulating exercise capacity in thermal stress.

Main Methods:

• Review of experimental evidence on physiological and psychological influences on exercise in heat.
• Analysis of studies demonstrating effects of physiological and psychological manipulations on thermal perception and performance.

Main Results:

• Increased fitness can attenuate thermal discomfort despite similar physiological strain.
• Psychological interventions effectively reduce perceived thermal strain and enhance exercise performance in heat.
• Evidence supports a neuroanatomical basis for thermal perception influencing physiological responses.

Conclusions:

• Thermal perception significantly interacts with exercise performance in hot environments.
• Psychological and physiological factors collectively regulate exercise capacity under thermal stress.
• Targeting thermal perception offers a viable strategy to improve heat adaptation for athletes.