Impact of Heat on Dual Task Performance

Primary outcomes

1. expanded timed up and go

   Time frame: baseline and post-heat stress, both day 1

   A timed test where participants stand from a chair, walk 10 m, turn, and return to the chair. Longer times indicate slower gait speed

2. Firefighter balance test

   Time frame: baseline and post-heat stress, both day 1

   A timed test where participants walk an obstacle course measuring dynamic balance, having to step up/down, walk a narrow path, and duck under an obstacle. Longer times indicate worse dynamic balance.

3. Backward Digit Recall

   Time frame: baseline and post-heat stress, both day 1

   A timed test where participants recall a series of numbers in reverse order. More digits indicate better recall.

4. Serial Sevens Subtraction

   Time frame: baseline and post-heat stress, both day 1

   A timed test where participants count backwards from a starting value by 7s, with the more correct responses in 20 seconds indicating better cognitive ability for this task.

5. Serial Sevens Subtraction-Expanded Timed Up and Go Dual Task

   Time frame: baseline and post-heat stress, both day 1

   Performance of serial sevens subtractions while performing the Expanded timed up and go test (ETUG). This test is timed (ETUG) and correct responses tabulated (subtraction).

6. Serial Sevens Subtraction-Firefighter Balance Test Dual Task

   Time frame: baseline and post-heat stress, both day 1

   Performance of serial sevens subtractions while performing the Firefighter Balance Test (FFBT). This test is timed (FFBT) and correct responses tabulated (subtraction).

7. Backward Digit Recall-Expanded Timed Up and Go Dual Task

   Time frame: baseline and post-heat stress, both day 1

   Performance of backward digit recall while performing the Expanded timed up and go test (ETUG). This test is timed (ETUG) and correct responses tabulated (Recall).

8. Backward Digit Recall-Firefighter Balance Test Dual Task

   Time frame: baseline and post-heat stress, both day 1

   Performance of backward digit recall while performing the Firefighter Balance Test (FFBT). This test is timed (FFBT) and correct responses tabulated (Recall).