CORE 2

Frequently Asked Questions

Tech can sometimes feel like a maze. Here are the answers.

Why is core body temperature important for performance?

Muscles generate heat when working. If we produce enough heat, core temperature rises. The body tries to cool itself by sending blood to the skin, where sweat evaporates. This diverts blood away from muscles and reduces performance. You can minimize this by (1) using real-time core temperature data for strategic decisions during training and racing, and (2) training in heat to adapt to higher internal temperatures. In one study, cyclists improved their time trial performance by 8% after just 10 days of heat training.

What data does CORE 2 measure and display?

CORE 2 measures both core and skin temperature. These values are shown live in the app and on compatible sports devices (e.g., GPS watches or bike computers). The app and some Garmin devices also display real-time heat strain index, indicating how much thermal stress your body is under.

How should I use CORE 2 during training or races?

During heat training, use CORE 2 data to keep your core temperature within the heat training zone. In races, the data can help you decide when to cool down or reduce effort to avoid overheating.

How much heat training is needed to see results?

Max benefits are seen after 10–12 sessions over 2–6 weeks. Most athletes improve after 4–5 sessions. Maintaining benefits only requires 2–3 sessions weekly. Each session should include 45–60 minutes of continuous effort in the heat training zone. Even less frequent sessions have shown performance benefits.

I race only in cool weather. Why add heat training?

Heat training improves performance at higher core temperatures and increases blood plasma and hemoglobin volume, boosting performance in both cold and hot conditions.

What is the science behind heat training benefits?

The impact of heat on performance is well studied. Heat training improves the body’s ability to handle high temperatures, cool more efficiently, and perform in all environments. It increases plasma and hemoglobin volume, sweat rate, and earlier onset of sweating. You can find supporting research here.

Is the CORE 2 sensor accurate? How is it tested?

CORE 2 measures heat transfer between body and environment. An AI-based algorithm calculates core temperature with medical-grade accuracy. Extensive testing has confirmed accuracy compared to invasive methods like ingestible pills. Athletes can trust this non-invasive wearable to reliably understand their core body state. More accuracy info here.

Is CORE 2 compatible with my watch, bike computer, or app?

The CORE 2 app is available on iOS and Android. The sensor works with COROS (software Jan 2022+), most Garmin, Suunto, Wahoo, Hammerhead devices. Apple and WearOS support is improving. Training platforms like Today’s Plan, Intervals.icu, Golden Cheetah, and premium TrainingPeaks are compatible. Full compatibility list here.

Do I need a heart rate monitor (chest strap) to use CORE 2?

Pairing CORE 2 with a chest strap HR monitor is strongly recommended for the most accurate data during sports. Heart rate helps translate heat flow into accurate core temperature readings. Outside of workouts, temperature data is accurate with or without it. Consider using CORE 2 with a COROS Heart Rate Monitor.