Thermal stress risk to skateboarding in Johannesburg, South Africa

Abstract

Skateboarding, an urban sport predominantly undertaken on heat-retentive impervious surfaces, exposes participants to a heightened thermal stress risk, exacerbated by the Urban Heat Island (UHI) effect. While heat stress in traditional sports is well-documented, a research gap exists concerning its impact in a less-traditional sports including skateboarding. This study, conducted at Tighy Park in Westdene, Johannesburg, investigates the intersection of heat stress, skateboarder perceptions and thermal risk. Meteorological readings were taken at the study site from February to April 2025. Concurrently, 27 skateboarders completed questionnaires on their experiences of heat stress and adaptive strategies to mitigate heat exposure. Their responses were analysed thematically. The meteorological data were analysed using two indices: Humidex (Hx) and Heat Index (HI). The results indicate an environment with a moderate-to-high heat stress risk. The questionnaires revealed near-unanimous experiences of thermal discomfort, with prevalent symptoms including excessive sweating and diminished stamina. The findings underscore the need for urban planners to integrate thermal stress risk considerations into the design of skate parks to ensure the wellbeing of the target participants.