Heat Illness in Sport and Exercise
Australia is synonymous with summer and sport. When these two extremes, hot environmental conditions and vigorous exercise, are combined it can produce a health and safety risk to athletes, officials, and spectators.
This topic provides information for all, so that participation in sport and exercise in hot conditions can be done in a safe manner. This information is intended to increase awareness of the risk to health and performance, and guide practice so that heat-related illnesses can be avoided.
Key messages
Exertional or exercise induced heat stroke is a form of hyperthermia—a condition where the normal internal core temperature of the human body (generally 37°C) is elevated by as little as 2 to 3°C (39°C to 40°C) or higher.
Although the incidence of exertional heat stroke is rare, sporting bodies and event organisers are encouraged to understand the risk factors and have a clear policy regarding the risk of heat illness during competition and other sport participation.
Topic focus
Evaluated by:
Dr Chris Abbiss, Associate Professor, School of Exercise and Health Sciences, Edith Cowan University (January 2018)
Reviewed by: Australasian Sport Information Network
Last updated: 20 May 2022
Content disclaimer: See Clearinghouse for Sport disclaimer
IS THIS INFORMATION COMPLETE?
The Clearinghouse for Sport is a sector-wide knowledge sharing initiative, and as such your contributions are encouraged and appreciated. If you would like to suggest a resource, submit a publication, or provide feedback on this topic, please contact us.
Alternatively, if you would like to be kept up to date with research and information published about this topic, please request a research profile setup.