Is Performance of Intermittent Intense Exercise Enhanced by Use of a Commercial Palm Cooling Device?
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to determine if using the Core Control (trademark) Rapid Thermal Exchange (RTX), a commercial palm cooling device, during active rest periods of multiple set training, is an effective means to increase performance. Ten subjects completed three interval running tests on a human-powered treadmill. In those performances subjects completed eight 30-second intervals at a hard/fast pace followed by a 90-second walking or light jogging recovery period. During the recovery period, the subjects placed their hand on one of three media: the RTX held at 15 degrees Centigrade (R), a 15 degree Centigrade standard refrigerant gel pack (P), or nothing at all (C). Although there were differences in core temperature (Tc), subjective heat stress ratings, and distance and power generated between intervals, there were no significant differences among treatments for any of these variables nor was the interaction effect of interval-treatment found to be significant. The authors conclude that the RTX, in its current iteration, is ineffective at improving performance and/or mitigating thermal stress during high-intensity intermittent exercise.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 01, 2008
- Accession Number
- ADA482058
Entities
People
- Andrew Cantwell
- Julia Mcgregor
- Michael Zupan
- Thomas Walker
- Torrance Norris
Organizations
- Air Force Research Laboratory