title: Skin temperature as a thermal controller of exercise intensity.
abstract: This study examined the role of skin temperature on self-selected exercise intensity (i.e., power output). Eight well-trained, male cyclists completed two 60 min self-paced cycling bouts during which they completed as much work as possible. Using a liquid-perfused suit, skin temperature (T (Sk)) was changed during the two trials such that T (Sk) either started hot and was cooled (H to C) or started cold and was heated (C to H) throughout exercise. Pre-exercise core temperatures (T (C)) and heart rates (HR) were similar between trials, while T (Sk), thermal comfort and thermal sensation were higher in H to C. The change in T (Sk) was similar in magnitude during the two trials. Work completed was greatest in C to H, which was attributed to a higher initial power output. T (C) was similar between trials. HR was similar until 35 min had elapsed, after which it became lower in H to C. The perception of effort increased similarly between the two trials, while thermal comfort and thermal sensation generally reflected the changes observed in T (Sk). These results indicate that upon exercise commencement T (Sk) and the accompanying thermal perceptions are important inputs in the initial selection of exercise intensity.
authors.affiliation: Exercise and Sport Science, Institute of Food, Nutrition and Human Health, Massey University, Private Bag 11 222, Palmerston North, 4442, New Zealand. Z.J.Schlader@massey.ac.nz
authors.forename: Zachary J
authors.initials: ZJ
authors.lastname: Schlader
authors.forename: Shona E
authors.initials: SE
authors.lastname: Simmons
authors.forename: Stephen R
authors.initials: SR
authors.lastname: Stannard
authors.forename: Toby
authors.initials: T
authors.lastname: Mündel
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D001833:Body Temperature Regulation / Q000502:physiology; D015444:Exercise / Q000502:physiology*; D005080:Exercise Test; D017079:Exercise Tolerance / Q000502:physiology; D006339:Heart Rate / Q000502:physiology; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D010465:Perception / Q000502:physiology; D010807:Physical Endurance / Q000502:physiology*; D012881:Skin Temperature / Q000502:physiology*; D013696:Temperature; D013697:Thermosensing / Q000502:physiology*; D055815:Young Adult