Central and peripheral fatigue induced by exercise in heat and hypoxic conditions

• Grant number: 23/06180-2
• Support Opportunities: Regular Research Grants
• Start date: May 01, 2024
• End date: April 30, 2026
• Field of knowledge: Health Sciences - Physical Education
• Principal Investigator: Alessandro Moura Zagatto
• Grantee: Alessandro Moura Zagatto
• Host Institution: Faculdade de Ciências (FC). Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP). Campus de Bauru. Bauru , SP, Brazil
• Associated researchers: Juan Murias ; Melissa Talita Wiprich

Abstract

Central fatigue, characterized by alterations in both cortical and spinal function, plays a significant role in impairing neuromuscular function and overall physical performance. Environmental stressors such as heat and hypoxia (altitude) are known to influence central fatigue, as does prolonged physical exertion. However, the effectiveness and magnitude of central fatigue induced by exercise under these specific conditions remain poorly understood.This project aims to investigate the development of both central and peripheral fatigue induced by exercise in heat, hypoxia, and their combination, using these environments as experimental models for fatigue induction. In addition to quantifying the magnitude of fatigue, we will assess its time-course by evaluating neuromuscular function through peripheral nerve electrical stimulation during maximal voluntary contraction efforts, electromyographic (EMG) activity, and both muscle and cortical oxygen saturation. Subjective measures of exertion (RPE) and recovery (RPR) will also be collected. Neuromuscular function and recovery will be assessed immediately post-exercise, at 15 and 30 minutes, and then hourly up to 3 hours post-exercise. (AU)