Attentional processes and performance in hot humid or dry environments: review, applied recommendation and new research directions

Abstract

Many important sporting events are organized in hot ambient conditions. In addition, given the global warming around the world, and because heat also concerns millions of people living in hot-dry and/or hot-humid environments, individuals often perform cognitive and/or cognitivo-motor tasks under heat stress conditions. Hot environment can negatively affect aerobic and high intensity performances and can also negatively influence mental performances and cognitive function as executive functions and attention. This review was realized in order to provide a better understanding of the influence of the heat on cognition as attentional processes. In addition, applied recommendations and strategies (e.g., acclimation, cooling, mental technics), that individuals can use during learning, training or competitions performed in hot environments, are discussed. Finally, new directions in research are proposed.