Core Temperature In A Historically Black College And University Marching Band

Emerson DM*, Barnwell S*, Walker A*, Moore K*, Baker A*, Torres-McGehee TM*, Kelly MR† *University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, †Utah Valley University, Orem, UT The growing research on exertional heat illness and core temperature among college marching band (MB) artists has focused on predominately white institutions. Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) have different performance styles, often incorporating more dance and accentuated movements, which may increase physical demands. PURPOSE: To examine core body temperature (Tc) among HBCU MB artists. METHODS: This was a descriptive study using a convenient sample of MB artists (n = 10; 5 males, 3 females, 1 intersex; age = 19.5 ± 1.6 years, height = 175.0 ± 8.8 cm, weight = 93.6 ± 23.8 kg, body surface area = 2.1 ± 0.2 m2). We measured Tc via ingestible thermistors (eCelsius Performance Capsule, BodyCAP) at 1-minute intervals throughout 3 rehearsals and 1 performance day. Wet-bulb globe temperature (WBGT) was measured using the Kestrel 3000HS (Kestrel® Instruments, Boothwyn, PA). Means and standard deviations were calculated for all outcomes variables. RESULTS: Mean rehearsal WBGT = 12.6 ± 2.8 °C. Mean rehearsal Tc = 37.9 ± 0.1 °C and performance = 37.4 ± 0.3 °C. Among all artists, maximum Tc = 38.7 °C and occurred during Rehearsal 1 and 3. Figure 1 shows overall mean and standard deviations for Tc across days. CONCLUSION: This band rehearsed in late evenings, when WBGT was lower. Despite the cooler temperatures, Tc among HBCU MB artists was similar to what has been demonstrated among other college MB artists. Sports medicine personnel continue to expand into performing arts, and attention should also be paid to the health and wellness of MB artists at HBCUs.