Physiological Influences on Exercise and Whole Thermotolerance(Sauna) Stress with Obese Patients

Abstract

To investigate the physiological influences on exercise and whole thermotolerance (sauna) stress with nineteen obese patients, aged 25 to 61 years (Body Mass Index; 29.6 ± 4.9 kg/m2), we have examined gas analysis using foot ergometer and sauna stress, monitoring oxygen uptake (VO2), carbon dioxide output (VCO2) and heart rate (HR). We have obtained the following results; (1) maximal VO2 and maximal HR on exercise were remarkably increased, although maximal VO2 was increased mildly and maximal HR moderately on sauna stress. (2) VO2 and HR were positively correlated on exercise. (3) The respiratory quotient (RQ) was significantly decreased after sauna stress, although it was increased after exercise. We could estimate the proportion of glucose and fat in energy expenditure using VO2 and RQ. In conclusion, the energy expenditure would be attributable to not only glucose but also fat metabolism on sauna stress, meanwhile it would be mainly glucose metabolism on exercise. © 1996, The Society of Physical Therapy Science. All rights reserved.