To allow athletes to safely adjust to the stress of exercise in the heat, how long should coaches progressively introduce activity?

Progressively introducing activity over a period of 10-14 days is essential for allowing athletes to safely acclimatize to the stress of exercising in hot conditions. This gradual adaptation period helps the body to adjust physiologically to increased temperatures, leading to improved cardiovascular function and thermal regulation. During this timeframe, athletes’ sweat rates can increase, and blood flow can be better managed, all of which contribute to enhanced performance and reduced risk of heat-related illnesses.

While shorter acclimatization periods may seem adequate, they may not provide enough time for meaningful physiological adjustments to occur. Acclimatization is a complex process that involves changes in multiple systems in the body, and rushing this process can lead to dangerous situations such as heat exhaustion or even heat stroke. Therefore, a 10-14 day period is recommended to promote a safer and more effective transition into high-intensity activity in hot weather conditions.