Heat acclimatization
[heet ak-li-muh-ty-zay-shun]
/hiːt əˌklaɪmətaɪˈzeɪʃən/
Noun
The physiological adaptations that occur in response to repeated exposure to heat, improving the body's ability to tolerate and perform in hot conditions.
Heat acclimatization is the process by which the body adapts to high temperatures, improving its ability to perform in hot conditions. This adaptation includes increased sweat rate, reduced heart rate, and stabilized core temperature. Runners benefit as it enhances endurance and reduces the risk of heat-related illnesses. Real-world examples include athletes training in hot climates or using saunas to simulate heat exposure. It typically takes 1-2 weeks of consistent exposure to achieve significant acclimatization. This process is crucial for events in hot environments, as it can significantly impact performance and safety.