Exercise and the Environment: Thermoregulation

A collection of vocabulary flashcards based on key terms and definitions related to thermoregulation and its impact on exercise performance.

Thermoregulation

The process whereby body temperature is maintained or controlled under a wide range of environmental conditions.

Heat Index

A scale used to determine the risk of heat stress from measures of ambient temperature and relative humidity.

Core Temperature

Refers to the internal body temperature, typically maintained around 37 deg C (98.6 F).

Acclimatization

Adaptive changes that occur when an individual undergoes prolonged or repeated exposure to a stressful environment.

Hyperthermia

A condition characterized by an elevated core body temperature, usually above 41°C, which can lead to severe health issues.

Exertional Heat Illness (EHI)

A spectrum of disorders from mild cardiovascular and CNS disruptions to severe cell damage, including hyperthermia.

Heat loss mechanisms

Processes by which the body loses heat, including radiation, conduction, convection, and evaporation.

Cold-related injuries

Injuries that can occur due to exposure to cold conditions, which can be serious and life-threatening.

Hydration

The process of providing adequate fluid intake to maintain bodily processes, crucial for performance during exercise.

Vasoconstriction

The physiological process of narrowing blood vessels, which helps minimize heat loss in cold environments.

Hypothermia

A life-threatening condition where the body temperature drops below 35°C, leading to impaired bodily functions.

Non-shivering thermogenesis

Increased heat production in the body without shivering, mainly through hormonal responses.