How Shape Matters in Measuring Skin Heat During Workouts

Researchers sought to determine if the shape used in software affects skin temperature readings during exercise. They tested two shapes: boxes and ellipses.

Study Design

• Participants: 42 male runners
• Conditions:
• Resting
• After cold water immersion
• After a 5K race
• Muscles Monitored:
• Quadriceps
• Hamstrings
• Tibialis
• Triceps sural

Software Analysis

Two software methods were used to analyze thermograms:

• Box-shaped regions of interest
• Ellipse-shaped regions of interest

Key Findings

• The shape of the region of interest had no significant impact on temperature readings.
• Both shapes provided reliable and consistent results.
• Activity type had a major effect on skin temperature:
• Significant changes were observed after running compared to resting.
• No interaction effect between activity type and software method was found.

Conclusion

Both box and ellipse shapes in software can be used to measure skin temperature accurately. This simplifies and standardizes the process for athletes and researchers.