Test and Evaluation of Heart Rate Derived Core Temperature Algorithms for Use in NCAA Division I Football Athletes

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to assess the validity of utilizing heart rate to derive an estimate of core body temperature in American Football athletes. This was evaluated by combining commercially available Zephyr Bioharness devices, which includes an embedded estimated core temperature (ECT) algorithm, and an ingestible radio frequency core temperature pill during the highest heat injury risk timepoint of the season, summer training camp. Results showed a concordance of 0.643 and 78% of all data points fell within +/−1.0 °F. When the athletes were split into Upper (>/=6.0%) and Lower (<6.0%) body composition groups, there was a statistical improvement in accuracy with the Upper Body Fat% reaching 0.834 concordance and 93% of all values falling within +/−1.0 °F of the Gold Standard. Results suggest that heart rate derived core temperature assessments are a viable tool for heat stress monitoring in American football, but more work is required to improve on accuracy based on body composition.

Keywords

• exertional heat illness
• athlete monitoring
• core temperature