Exercise + Heat Stress for Cardiometabolic Health
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial explores how adding heat stress to exercise might help astronauts maintain health during long space missions. Researchers aim to determine if exercising in warm conditions can prevent the aging effects astronauts experience in space. The trial includes three groups: one exercises with fans to stay cool, another exercises in heavy clothing to increase heat (heat strain), and a control group rests. This study is open to physically active individuals without conditions such as asthma, smoking, or heart issues. As an unphased trial, it offers a unique opportunity to contribute to innovative research that could enhance astronaut health on long missions.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
If you are taking daily medications that might affect your response to exercise, you may not be eligible for this trial. The trial does not specify a washout period, but it excludes those on certain medications.
Is there any evidence suggesting that this trial's treatments are likely to be safe?
Research shows that exercise is generally safe and well-tolerated. Studies have found that regular physical activity can greatly improve heart health and energy metabolism. Participants in exercise programs often see a decrease in heart disease risks and experience better overall body function. A review of different exercise types found that combining various exercises improved health without major safety concerns.
However, dealing with heat can be more challenging. Some studies have linked high temperatures to increased risks for heart problems. Heat can make the heart work harder, which might be a concern for some individuals, especially those with existing health issues. In a controlled and supervised setting, such as a clinical trial, these risks can be managed.
In summary, while exercise is generally safe, heat stress should be approached carefully. Participants should be aware of potential risks and discuss them with their healthcare providers before joining such a trial.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Researchers are excited about this trial because it explores how exercise combined with heat stress might improve cardiometabolic health in unique ways. Unlike traditional treatments that often rely on medications to manage heart and metabolic conditions, this approach investigates the body's natural response to exercise and heat. The trial examines two distinct strategies: one where participants exercise while staying cool, and another where they exercise under heat strain by wearing winter and rain gear. By understanding the effects of these different conditions, researchers hope to uncover new, non-pharmaceutical methods to enhance heart and metabolic health, potentially leading to more accessible and holistic treatment options.
What evidence suggests that this trial's treatments could be effective for cardiometabolic health?
This trial will compare the effects of exercise alone and exercise with heat stress on cardiometabolic health. Research has shown that exercise effectively boosts heart and metabolic health. Studies have found that regular exercise can lower blood pressure and improve cholesterol levels, which are crucial for a healthy heart. A review of various exercise programs found they can significantly enhance health markers like fitness levels and body fat percentage.
Regarding heat stress, research suggests it might also benefit heart health. Heat therapy has been linked to better heart function and may improve overall cardiovascular health. However, while there are benefits, heat stress can sometimes make the heart work harder, so its effects can vary. Combining exercise with heat stress might offer unique benefits, but individual health conditions must be considered. Participants in this trial will be assigned to different groups to explore these effects: one group will exercise while trying to remain cool, another will exercise under heat strain, and a control group will rest without exercising.23678Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for healthy young adults interested in the effects of exercise and heat on the body. Participants should be willing to undergo physical stress from exercise and environmental stress from heat exposure. Specific eligibility details are not provided, but typically, participants would need to be free from conditions that could be worsened by these stresses.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Familiarization
Familiarization and fitness test including lactate threshold and maximal aerobic power test on an upright cycle ergometer
Experimental Visits
Participants undergo control exercise, heated exercise, or control rest with various physiological assessments
Follow-up
Follow-up assessments after each experimental visit including arterial stiffness assessment and blood sampling
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Exercise
- Heat strain
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Northern Arizona University
Lead Sponsor