Ever feel like skipping your workout when the summer heat hits? Heated resistance exercise (HRE), the combination of heat stress with strength training, is gaining traction for its potential to enhance muscle growth and performance. Emerging research suggests that heat can amplify key processes linked to protein synthesis, such as heat shock protein expression and hormonal responses. While most existing evidence comes from cell and animal studies, human trials are showing promising results in showing that both local and whole-body heat combined with resistance exercise may boost neuromuscular function and hypertrophy. Though still in early stages, HRE shows promise as a valuable tool in athletic and rehabilitation settings. Therefore, rather than avoiding training in the heat, it may be worth considering its potential added benefits! ¹⁰

References

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