Summary
Exercising in hot conditions acutely reduces HRV compared to temperate environments. Heat acclimatization over 10-14 days helps restore autonomic balance and improve heat tolerance.
Methods
Heat acclimatization studies with HRV monitoring
Key Findings
- Acute heat exposure reduces HRV during exercise
- Sympathetic dominance increases in hot conditions
- 10-14 days of heat exposure improves tolerance
- HRV stabilizes as acclimatization progresses
- Hydration status affects autonomic response
Limitations
Individual heat tolerance varies significantly
What This Means for You
When training in heat, expect lower HRV initially. Allow 10-14 days for heat acclimatization. Monitor HRV to track adaptation and avoid overreaching during the acclimatization period.
Source
Read the original paper in Scandinavian Journal of Medicine & Science in Sports ↗
Added to HRV Zone: 2025-01-10