Understanding the Physiological, Biomechanical, and Performance Effects of Body Armor Use
Abstract
This study was conducted to compare the effects on Soldiers' physiological, biomechanical, and maximal performance responses of not wearing any armor, wearing an armor vest, and wearing a vest plus extremity armor. Eleven Army enlisted men participated in the study. Participants carried out the following activities on separate days of testing: walking (1.39 m/s); running (2.34 m/s); and three maximal effort tasks. The maximal effort tasks were: five continuous 30-m rushes; 5 min of repetitive lifting of a 20.5-kg. box; and obstacle course runs. The walking and the running trials were 10 min in duration and took place on a level treadmill. Each participant was tested in five conditions: no armor, the Interceptor Body Armor tactical vest, and three types of extremity armor, which were work with the armor vest. The vest was configured with a collar, groin protector, and protective inserts. The three designs of extremity armor were similar in weight, but varied in body surface area covered.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Dec 01, 2008
- Accession Number
- ADA504354
Entities
People
- Brian Corner
- Carolyn K. Bensel
- Jeffrey M. Schiffman
- Karen N. Gregorczyk
- Leif Hasselquist
Organizations
- United States Army Soldier Systems Center