This week, the World Economic Forum posted an interesting article titled '5 ways that climate change is affecting sports around the world'. The article examines how some of the world's biggest sporting events may have to adapt to rising global temperatures and gives several examples. The Tour de France may have to move to another month as the temperature during the July 2024 race reached 40 degrees. In 2022, organisers had to pour water on the course so the roads wouldn't melt. The race is already gruelling, but the extreme temperatures significantly threaten riders' health. In a previous article about sustainability at the Paris Olympics, we mentioned that the International Olympic Committee (IOC) has yet to announce its shortlist of host cities for the Winter Olympics in 2030 and beyond, as there's no guarantee those cities will have the necessary winter conditions. Alarmingly, research also suggests that by 2040, as few as ten countries may be able to host a Winter Games. The World Economic Forum's article says that many ski resorts worldwide are struggling with the impact of climate change and that by 2100, one in eight might have no snow. While many of us will immediately think of international events and competitions, it's also worth remembering that ski resorts and winter venues contribute significantly to local economies by providing accommodation, transportation, food and drink outlets, etc., for visitors. Tourists come for the winter conditions, so what happens when resorts and towns no longer have them? Typically, marathons are run in the morning to avoid higher temperatures or, on occasion, at midnight, as has happened in the Middle East. Cancellations may become more common, or events may have to be moved to other times of the year when the weather is cooler. This is hardly ideal, given that some of the biggest athletic competitions are traditionally held in July and August. Like the risk high temperatures pose to Tour de France riders, long-distance runners may struggle to compete safely. Ashley Matteo explains that heat elevates core temperature, directing blood away from muscles to the skin to cool you down, which can make maintaining pace while pushing harder, which could make heat exhaustion and heat stroke more likely. The World Economic Forum article also discusses wildfires and their impact on US baseball, basketball, and soccer games. Games have been cancelled, and those that go ahead in poor conditions can lead to health problems in sportsmen and women. Poor air quality is linked to cardiovascular diseases, which the World Economic Forum says could lead to 'as many as 9 million premature deaths per year by 2060'. The article also details that climate change has caused more than ‘500 home runs since 2010' as higher air temperatures mean less air resistance for the 'ball to travel through', showing that the implications of climate change can be varied and surprising. Of course, these issues won't only affect world-class athletes. They represent a problem for everyone. Higher temperatures can significantly impact human health, regardless of whether you're running long distances at the Olympics, walking to a local shop or working outside. In England, 2,000 additional deaths each year are caused by high temperatures. People with Asthma and cardiovascular issues are at greater risk in extreme heat. The Conversation explains that during hotter weather, blood flow to the skin is increased, forcing the heart to pump harder and faster. This can be deadly to those with heart conditions. This is on top of other heat-related health issues like heatstroke and dehydration, which can become life-threatening very quickly. When we talk about high temperatures and sporting events, it isn't only athletes who are at risk. In a study entitled 'The impact of extreme heat on mass-gathering sporting events: implications for Australia and other countries,' the authors concluded that the impact of heat on health outcomes at sporting events should be 'considered by individuals, coaches, officials, and organisers before, during, and after mass-gathering sporting events'. High temperatures aren't the only thing that can affect sporting events. Sport England writes that during heavy rainfall in November 2022, 40% of young people admitted that poor weather had stopped them exercising. Extreme weather can significantly contribute to a drop in the number of people getting regular physical activity. The UK Met Office writes that by 2050, a quarter of UK football grounds will be flooded, while Zurich UK completed its study and writes that four in 10 professional football stadiums in England are predicted to be at risk from multiple climate hazards by 2050. It's concerning that weather-related issues could cause severe chaos to an already busy season. Energym designs and develops electricity-generating indoor fitness bikes for gyms, offices, and homes.