Evaluation of Physical, Mental, and Mechanical Aspects of an Extreme Military Training Event: A Continuous Monitoring Approach

Soldiers receive extensive training at extremes of environments and simulated terrains to improve their battle efficiency. A study was designed to evaluate the actual cost of a military physical efficiency test consisting of several physically engaging activities to quantify physiological, mechanical, and subjective demands. Sixteen Indian soldiers participated in a military training session consisting of events such as a 5-km run, 4-m vertical rope climbing, a 2.75-m jump, a 60-m dash, and a 9-m horizontal rope climbing with 6.5 kg of equipment in a hot dry environment. Their physiological status was monitored continuously. National Aeronautics and Space Administration Task Load Index (NASA-TLX) scores were obtained to assess mental workload. Heart rate reserve (HRR) and heart rate (HR) scores were calculated from the mean HR of each stage of the session. Repeated measure ANOVA was applied to the physiological parameters, and Pearson’s correlation was applied to NASA-TLX and HR scores. The 5-km run was the most physically demanding (HR was maintained at about 84% of maximum HR–HRmax throughout). About 24% of HRR remained after the run. The workload of the other events was within the range of 62–67% of HRmax, and the remaining HRR was 50–57%. The mechanical and physiological intensities derived during the session indicated higher mechanical requirements and associated physiological support. The participants predicted overall moderate task load, which was loosely correlated to HR scores. The physiological and mechanical responses pointed toward soldiers’ ability to withstand the challenges of a combination of activities. The findings also ensured minimal injury risk and battle readiness for probable missions at extremes of environment and terrain.