The temperature monitoring eco-system being developed by Professor Yannis Pitsiladis, the university’s Professor of Sport and Exercise Science, uses numerous sensors such as a tiny capsule containing an electronic chip which relays information on how an athlete’s body is coping with high temperatures during a race.
Medical staff would be alerted if a competitor’s readings were indicating signs of heat stress or hyperthermia and the athlete could be withdrawn. This technology can also help provide more rapid, accurate and dignified temperature assessment at the road/track side in medical emergencies.
In a separate effort, a temperature-monitoring pill, that does not involve real time monitoring of temperature, will be offered to athletes competing in the World Athletics Championship in the Qatar capital of Doha next month (September) when temperatures can reach up to 40C.