Physical Tests to Predict Combat Task Performance Among Brazilian Air Force Infantry Cadets

Area of Science:

• Military Science
• Exercise Physiology
• Human Performance

Background:

• Brazilian Air Force (BAF) personnel require rigorous preparation for demanding combat tasks (CTs).
• Standard physical activity practices may not fully encompass the specific physical demands of CTs.
• Simulated tasks (STs) are used to mimic CTs, necessitating accurate performance prediction methods.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify a specific physical test (SPT) battery that accurately predicts physical performance on simulated combat tasks (STs).
• To evaluate the predictive power of different combinations of SPTs for BAF combat readiness.

Main Methods:

• Thirty BAF infantry cadets participated in anthropometric assessments, 11 SPTs, and 3 STs over 7 days.
• Bivariate Pearson's correlation and multiple linear regression models were employed to analyze the relationships between SPTs and STs.
• Statistical significance was set at P < 0.05.

Main Results:

• The test battery comprising sprint-drag-carry, leg tucks, and handgrip strength demonstrated the highest predictive power (R² = 0.56, P < 0.01).
• The conventional BAF physical test battery (push-ups, sit-ups, 12-minute run) showed the lowest predictive power (R² = 0.14, P < 0.05).

Conclusions:

• A specific test battery was identified as a reliable predictor of performance on simulated combat tasks such as foot march, casualty drag, and move under direct fire.
• This research provides a foundation for enhancing the reliability of BAF physical assessments.
• The findings contribute to improving combat readiness evaluations for military personnel.