Document Type

Student Conference

Semester of Graduation

Spring 2026

Abstract

Hot environments has proven to impact performance outcomes negatively when engaged in intense physical activity due to altered cognitive function. Despite extensive research on how rehydration or hypohydration strategies in hot environments ameliorates physical and/or cognitive performance, this study focuses on cooling strategies using a newly developed device called Tigeraire, Zephyr. This device aims to reduce the sensation of heat stress and improve cognitive function during standardized exercise in a hot environment.
Participants were randomly assigned to two separate interventional trials, one with the fan and one without. Participants completed the trials in an environmental chamber set at 30 degrees Celsius and 70% relative humidity (RH). Physiological assessments were conducted during a 30-minute cycling exercise in normal clothing, including a baseball hat, at a heart rate estimated to be 50% of the heart rate reserve (%HRR).
Both interventions included measurements of heart rate, skin and tympanic temperatures, subjective feedback on exertion and thermal comfort from participants, and a cognitive test (pre- and post-intervention). If the device provides significant evidence of cooling the forehead and tympanic regions, reducing heat stress and improving cognitive function, this study could have ecological relevance for military and athlete populations, as well as outdoor workers, potentially preventing heat exhaustion or injury

Awardee Name

Marie Vilcin

Academic Major

Kinesiology

Project Mentor

Arend Van Gemmert

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