A heat and moisture-exchanging mask impairs self-paced maximal running performance in a sub-zero environment

Area of Science:

• Exercise Physiology
• Environmental Extremes
• Sports Science

Background:

• Heat-and-moisture-exchanging devices (HME) are utilized by endurance athletes in cold conditions.
• The impact of HME on athletic performance in sub-zero temperatures remains largely uninvestigated.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the effect of HME use on running performance at -15°C.
• To assess physiological responses during exercise with and without HME in the cold.

Main Methods:

• A randomized crossover design was employed with 23 healthy adults performing treadmill tests.
• Participants completed a submaximal warm-up and a maximal running time-trial with and without a mask-style HME.
• Physiological variables including heart rate, respiratory frequency, skin temperature, muscle oxygenation, and blood lactate were monitored.

Main Results:

• HME use decreased running distance by 1.4% during the time-trial, with no difference in perceived exertion, heart rate, or lactate.
• Muscle oxygenation decreased and deoxyhemoglobin increased with HME use during maximal exercise.
• Submaximal exercise with HME showed elevated heart rate and skin temperature, particularly in male participants.

Conclusions:

• HME usage negatively impacts maximal running performance in cold environments.
• HME use increases the physiological demands of submaximal exercise for endurance athletes.
• Athletes should consider the potential performance detriments and increased physiological strain when using HME in sub-zero conditions.