Electromyographical modulations in the man under chronic and acute immersion in cold water

The aim of the present study was to estimate adaptation of the neuromuscular system (NMS) to severe acute and chronic immersion in cold water in the winter swimmers using electromyogra-phy (EMG). It has been found that winter swimming exerts only minimal effect on the NMS in comparison with healthy controls. Statistically significant decrease of the motor unit firing rate and the non-linear parameters of the interference EMG was documented for the condition of acute immersion in the icy water. In conclusion, the motor system of the man does not present adaptation to chronic intermittent cold immersion, albeit it reacts on the acute cold stimulus by remodeling of the motor units activity.