Authors: Jeffrey B. Roberts, Samuel B. Boggess, David J. Berkoff, Blake R. Boggess.
Many factors affect the body’s ability to maintain a homeostatic core temperature. A body’s inability to maintain homeostatic core temperature can lead to heat illness. Football players have several risk factors for heat illness as they compete in harsh conditions. The goal of this study was to determine if there is a correlation between body fat percentages and core temperature changes in NCAA Division I college football players. Results displayed a linear correlation between increased body fat and elevated core temperatures once the environment’s temperature hit a threshold of 92 degrees. In addition to this correlation, the study reiterates the importance of monitoring weather conditions as a risk factor for heat illness.
View/Download pdf