Heat Acclimation Procedures: Preparation for

Thermal homeostasis is rigorously challenged under extremely hot conditions, particularly during prolonged exercise, with even highly trained individuals failing to maintain thermal homeostasis. As a consequence, the incidence of heat illness increases, particularly during the first five days of heat exposure. However, humans have evolved so that heat dissipation and conservation mechanisms are able to adapt to a range of environmental conditions. These physiologcal changes can be brought about in response to acute natural climatic changes, artificial heat exposure and to endurance exercise training. This report summarises the physiologcal changes accompanying heat adaptation and critically reviews heat adaptation procedures. Finally, recommendations are made concerning the implementation of heat adaptation procedures for military personnel. These recommendations include: specification of the thermal environment; the level of thermal strain; the use of exercise; exposure duration; and the subsequent maintenance of heat adaptation