Core Temperature Afterdrop in Cold-water Swimming

Analysis of Core Temperature Afterdrop and Factors Associated With Afterdrop in Cold-water Swimming

A significant risk associated with hypothermia during exercise in a cold environment is the core temperature (T°core) afterdrop, which corresponds to a continuous fall in T°core during rewarming after hypothermia. However, the rate and predictors of the afterdrop are unclear, particularly during prolonged cold water swimming.

The investigators propose to measure the changes in T°core during and after a cold water swim at 12.5-13°C qualifying for English Channel swim and to test the impact of anthropometric and swimming parameters on the duration of the T°core afterdrop. The hypotheses are that afterdrop is common during a prolonged cold water swimming event and that protective factors against T°core drop during cold water swimming (increased body fat and BMI) might, conversely, be associated with prolonged afterdrop.

Inclusion Criteria:

• swimmers taking part in the Channel Swim Camp
• swimmers above 18 years of age
• swimmers willing and able to give informed consent for participation in the study

Exclusion Criteria:

• swallowing disorder
• chronic gastrointestinal disease
• MRI scheduled within 48 hours after the race.