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Military operations at moderate altitude: effects on physical performance
A C Hackney1, D L Kelleher, J T Coyne
1Department of Exercise & Sport Science, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill.
Military Medicine
|December 1, 1992
Summary
Field operations at moderate altitude significantly reduced anaerobic power and slightly increased the aerobic cost of exercise in U.S. Marines. Physical performance tasks showed a notable decrement after altitude exposure.
Area of Science:
- Exercise Physiology
- Altitude Training
- Military Performance
Background:
- Moderate altitude environments pose physiological challenges to physical performance.
- Understanding the impact of field operations at altitude is crucial for military readiness.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effects of moderate altitude field operations on anaerobic and aerobic physical performance in U.S. Marines.
- To quantify changes in power output, aerobic efficiency, and muscular strength.
Main Methods:
- Sixteen U.S. Marines underwent testing at sea level and at moderate altitude.
- Performance metrics included Wingate anaerobic power, aerobic cycle ergometry, hand grip strength, and push-ups.
- Testing occurred before and after a 4.5-day field operation at altitude.
Main Results:
- Significant reduction in anaerobic power (p < 0.05) was observed post-field operations.
- Slight elevation in the aerobic cost of submaximal exercise (p < 0.05) occurred after field operations.
- Hand grip strength and push-up performance showed no significant physiological changes.
Conclusions:
- Moderate altitude field operations induce a measurable decrement in anaerobic and aerobic performance in U.S. Marines.
- While some performance aspects are affected, others remain relatively stable.
- Findings highlight the physiological impact of sustained exertion at altitude.