A scoping review on effects of cold environments on endurance exercise performance and physiological responses
- VernacularTitle:寒冷环境对耐力性运动表现及生理反应的范围综述
- Author:
Sujie MAO
1
;
Jie GAO
1
;
Sen NIU
2
Author Information
- Publication Type:Review
- Keywords: cold environment; endurance exercise; metabolism; cardiovascular response; neuromuscular function
- From: Journal of Environmental and Occupational Medicine 2026;43(6):786-793
- CountryChina
- Language:Chinese
- Abstract: Background Cold exposure alters thermoregulation and influences metabolic, neuromuscular, and cardiovascular responses. Endurance performance tends to decline in extremely cold environments, yet the evidence has not been systematically mapped. Objective To summarize available evidence on the effects of cold environments on endurance exercise performance and physiological responses, and to provide insights for training practice and future research. Methods The review was conducted in accordance with PRISMA-ScR guidelines. Databases including PubMed, Embase, EBSCOhost, Web of Science, Cochrane, and CNKI were searched. Risk of bias was assessed using the RoB 2.0 tool. Study characteristics, environmental parameters, interventions, outcomes, and main findings were extracted. Evidence maps and matrices were used to describe research coverage and the direction of findings via qualitative synthesis. Results Ten randomized controlled trials or randomized crossover trials involving running, cycling, and cross-country skiing were included. Performance decrements were more often reported in extreme cold, while findings in cool conditions were mixed: maximal oxygen uptake was generally unchanged, but sustained endurance or maximal work capacity was more affected at lower temperatures. Some studies reported elevated heart rate and/or perceived exertion. RoB 2.0 assessment results showed that the overall risk of bias was low. Due to limited evidence and heterogeneity, results were synthesized descriptively without a meta-analysis. Conclusion Extreme cold is more likely to impair endurance performance, whereas findings in cool conditions are inconsistent. Maximal oxygen uptake is generally maintained, but sustained endurance appears more vulnerable, often accompanied by increased heart rate or perceived exertion. Further evidence is needed due to limited sample size and differences in environment and tasks.
