Thermoregulation Monitoring In Para-athletes Using Wearable Sensors At The Paris2024 Paralympics

PURPOSE: This study examined heat stress, response, and risk mitigation across classifications in the 2023 and 2024 Taranto Para Triathlon Cups and the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games, toenhance performance, prevent heat-related illnesses, optimize competition strategies in elite para-sport. By analyzing individualized thermoregulatory responses, this research seeks to identify key physiological challenges para-athletes face in diverse environmental conditions. The findings will inform evidence-based strategies to enhance athlete health, performance, safety, and recovery. METHODS: 51 athletes participated: (7) 2023 Taranto Para Triathlon Cup, (15) 2024 edition, (29) Paris 2024 Paralympics. These included wheelchair, visually impaired and limb disabilities. Monitoring involved ingestible core temperature pills, skin temperature sensors, and real-time environmental tracking. Refinements between 2023 and 2024 improved automation, sensor placement and minimized interference. Data was collected via smartwatches and analyzed centrally. Post-event interviews assessed usability and adoption potential. RESULTS: Thermoregulatory responses varied by sport and disability classification. Core temperatures were highest in endurance athletes, triathlon (39.4 °C), swimming (38.5 °C), nearing the 40 °C risk threshold. Shot put (39.0 °C) showed elevated temperatures, blind football and goalball athletes had lower skin temperatures (26-32 °C), suggesting differences in sweating or circulatory responses. Limb deficiencies may reduce heat dissipation, while blind athletes showed similar skin temperatures, suggesting vision impairment does not affect cooling. Refinements between previous Taranto events improved adoption, with medallists using the technology without performance interference. 70% of athletes expressed interest in monitoring, citing benefits in hydration and heat stress mitigation. Challenges as sensor placement for limb-impaired athletes and heat discomfort, both improved in 2024. No performance impact was observed, confirming wearables' viability for elite para-sport. CONCLUSION: This study emphasizes the need for personalized biometric monitoring in para-athletes and confirms wearable sensors as effective tools for promoting health, performance, and safety.