Abstract des Autors

The climate in Atlanta presents a major problem with the 1996 Olympics. Due to the high ambient temperature and humidity, many athletes are at an increased risk for malignant hyperthermia. In order to support the preparations of athletes and support staff for their time in Atlanta, practical guidelines are given for the long term preparations, travelling to Atlanta and for athletes' behaviour there and then. These guidelines relate to the importance of acclimatization, the ways to accomplish it, keeping a proper fluid and salt balance, adjustments in warming-up before contest and finally the prevention of, and measures to be taken with, heat related disease. Verf.-Referat