Extreme Environments

Cyclists routinely train and/or compete in environments that would be considered extreme. More widely, visiting, training, and competing in extreme environments is also becoming increasingly common in recreational cycling, not least as a consequence of heat waves and climate change. Extreme environments typically consist of heat or cold stress, and/or terrestrial altitude or simulated hypoxia. Exposure to extreme environments places additional strain on the human body during exercise, increasing energy demands. An understanding of how different environments, specifically heat, cold, and altitude influence cyclists, helps to identify potential interventions which can support or enhance performance in these conditions. This chapter summarises the physiological challenges within extreme environments, and how they may be mitigated through nutritional interventions.