Lean Muscle Mass in Special Operations Forces: Implications for Performance, Selection, and Injury Reduction A Narrative Review

Higher LM was associated with favorable outcomes across performance, selection, and injury domains in observational studies, though causal relationships remain unestablished. Despite the limited number of studies that directly assess SOF populations, large effect sizes are shown in SFAS selection, but are susceptible to confounding variables. Contradictory evidence exists regarding optimal body mass and injury interactions. Randomized controlled trials comparing LM-focused versus alternative preparation strategies are needed to establish causality before operational implementation. Current evidence identifies LM as worthy of experimental investigation but insufficient to support definitive recommendations for selection preparation or operational preservation protocols.