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Effects of wind application on thermal perception and self-paced performance.
L P J Teunissen1, A de Haan, J J de Koning
1MOVE Research Institute Amsterdam, Faculty of Human Movement Sciences, VU University Amsterdam, Van der Boechorststraat 9, 1081 BT Amsterdam, The Netherlands. lennart.teunissen@gmail.com
European Journal of Applied Physiology
|February 7, 2013
Summary
Wind cooling during self-paced exercise in heat improves physiological strain, thermal perception, and performance. While providing a greater sensation of coolness, it does not independently impact thermal comfort or overall performance outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Exercise Physiology
- Environmental Physiology
- Sports Science
Background:
- The interplay between physiological and perceptual effects of wind cooling during self-paced exercise remains under-investigated.
- Understanding these effects is crucial for optimizing performance and comfort in various environmental conditions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine the independent perceptual impact of wind cooling on exercise performance.
- To assess physiological and perceptual responses to temporary wind cooling during self-paced exercise in the heat.
Main Methods:
- Ten male subjects completed four 15-km cycling time trials under different climate conditions.
- Trials included hot humid with wind, warm humid without wind, hot dry without wind, and a condition with temporary wind cooling.
- Physiological (heart rate, temperature), perceptual (thermal sensation, exertion), and performance (power output, time) data were collected.
Main Results:
- Wind cooling led to a greater sensation of coolness despite similar physiological strain (heart rate, core/skin temperature) compared to non-wind conditions.
- Temporary wind application during a time trial reduced skin temperature, improved perceived exertion, thermal sensation, and comfort.
- This temporary wind application resulted in higher power output and a faster finish time.
Conclusions:
- Wind cooling offers immediate and consistent benefits for physiological strain, thermal perception, and performance during self-paced exercise in heat.
- The sensation of coolness from wind is distinct from its impact on thermal comfort and performance.
- Wind's benefits are evident even when physiological strain is similar across conditions.
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