Screening for Physical Capacity in the US Army: An Analysis of Measures Predictive of Strength and Stamina,
Abstract
Two models to predict aerobic and strength capacities have been developed. Prediction of these capacities has been predicated on demonstrated relationships between them and simple measures of anthropometry and performance. The relative maximal oxygen consumption (VO2 max) was chosen as the criterion measure for aerobic capacity. This choice reflects well understood physiological principles relating VO2 max and the aerobic requirements of real world tasks. The safe maximal lifting capacity to a 132 cm platform was chosen as the strength capacity criterion. This choice reflects a simplification of strength- demanding performance requirements in the U.S. Army. The simplification is justified by the demonstration that in excess of 90% of Army tasks having non-trivial strength requirements have lifting and/or repetitive lift and carrying solely as the strength demanding task. The use of the criterion measures to set physical capacity standards and describe enlistee population characteristics is constrained by a number of weaknesses in the sample populations used to construct the models. Fortunately, however, these limitations need not detract from practical utilization of the system. The criterion measures represent simulators of real world performance requirements, and thereby need not be considered as the ultimate criteria by which to set the screening standards. Rather, manpower needs, injury rates, etc., can be used in a dynamic mode to vary standards periodically, and thereby assure that the best personnel are placed in the more physically demanding jobs.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 10, 1980
- Accession Number
- ADA097457
Entities
People
- Dan S. Sharp
- James A. Vogel
- James E. Wright
- John F. Patton
- William L. Daniels
Organizations
- United States Army Research Institute of Environmental Medicine