Australian Triathlete – July-August 2017

AustrAliAn triAthlete | 73

benefits in different climates. Any specific
questions, please shout at my handle (@
drmitcha) or email me (Mitch@
shinbonemedical.com).
There are physiological and psychological
adaptations to heat. The physiological are
well documented (see summary).
The psychological benefits have been less
extensively investigated, but still, point to
a reduction in perceived exertion and
improved thermal comfort (Maxwell et al.
2016). This adaptation should confer critical

benefits on race day, allowing athletes to

better make rational and optimal decisions

about pacing and nutrition, in the absence

of overwhelming heat stress.

•    Physiological Adaptations Summary:

•    Increased plasma volume

(water in blood)

•    Reduced heart rate/core temperature/

skin temperature

•    Reduced core temperature at onset

of sweating

•    Altered fuel utilisation

•    Increased oxygen consumption/

heat loss by radiation and

convection

•    Improved exercise economy in hot

and cool environment

•    (Armstrong LE, 1998).

A STHA protocol is considered

seven days or less, while MTHA as

eight to 14 days. Time spent

exercising in the heat (35-40C) varies