Heat is turned up on Ironman

Staff from the department of sport, health and exercise science at Hull University are helping Ryan Hepworth prepare for next month’s gruelling event by allowing him to train in the state-of-the-art facility, which simulates extreme environments.

Recently acquired by the university and one of only a handful in the UK, it can reach temperatures in excess of 50 degrees, simulating conditions of altitude and humidity.

As well as being useful to athletes, the chamber helps researchers learn more about the physiology of exercise in extreme conditions.

Mr Hepworth, a 24-year-old life guard from Beeford, will test himself against the best when he competes in The Ironman Triathlon World Championships, an event which involves a 2.4-mile swim, 112 miles of cycling and a 26.2-mile marathon in high temperatures.

Mr Hepworth, who studied sport and management at the university’s Scarborough Campus, secured his place on the international stage by finishing as the first Briton in his age group at the national final in Bolton, completing the event in just over 10 hours.

He said: “Last year I had to fit training in around my studies but it is great that I can come back to work with the department.

“The qualifier only took place in July so I know I’ve got the fitness to do the distance in Hawaii but the conditions are going to be very different.

“In East Yorkshire you certainly don’t ever get 40 degree heat, so I’m really grateful for the help of the department in getting me ready for it.”

During his time in the chamber Mr Hepworth will train using exercise bikes and treadmills, with sport scientists monitoring his condition.

He hopes he will be well prepared for conditions in the Pacific by training in the simulated environment.

Dr Grant Abt, lecturer in sport and exercise physiology, said: “Over the course of the sessions we will be able to see lower heart rates and lower body temperatures as Ryan becomes acclimatised to the conditions. The body is able to adapt to the extreme conditions in a relatively short space of time so having the experience of the heat and humidity before he goes to Hawaii will be vital.

“Our initial tests have shown that Ryan is an extremely capable athlete, he’s already completed the course once before but the weather conditions will make it even harder. The distances involved will push his body to the limit so we hope we can play a part in his success.”

As well training athletes, the environment chamber can be used for commercial purposes, such as the training of firefighters and miners.