Nakajima, Y., Nakamura, Y., Hagiwara, A., Muraoka, L., & Ohta, F. (1998). Influence of ambient temperature on preferred intensity of exercise. Medicine and Science in Sports and Exercise, 30(5), Supplement abstract 1609.

The effect of ambient temperature on chosen exercise intensity was studied. Ss (M = 8; F = 2) performed 15 minutes of self-selected exercise on a cycle ergometer followed by 30 minutes of rest in 15 degrees Celsius and 30 degrees Celsius.

Tympanic temperature, thermal sensation, and comfort sensation were higher in the hot condition. Pedaling torque was higher in the cool condition. There were no differences for heart rate, perceived exertion, or pedaling frequency.

Implication. Performing in hot conditions increases performer discomfort over that experience in cool conditions.

Return to Table of Contents for this issue.