The effect of body armor on performance, thermal stress, and exertion: a critical review

Article


Larsen, Brianna, Netto, Kevin and Aisbett, Brad. 2011. "The effect of body armor on performance, thermal stress, and exertion: a critical review." Military Medicine: international journal of AMSUS. 176 (11), pp. 1265-1273. https://doi.org/10.7205/MILMED-D-10-00470
Article Title

The effect of body armor on performance, thermal stress, and exertion: a critical review

ERA Journal ID40335
Article CategoryArticle
AuthorsLarsen, Brianna (Author), Netto, Kevin (Author) and Aisbett, Brad (Author)
Journal TitleMilitary Medicine: international journal of AMSUS
Journal Citation176 (11), pp. 1265-1273
Number of Pages9
Year2011
PublisherOxford University Press
Place of PublicationUnited States
ISSN0026-4075
1930-613X
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)https://doi.org/10.7205/MILMED-D-10-00470
Abstract

Armed forces worldwide utilize some form of body armor as part of their personal protective system. This is particularly essential in recent times because of the increased sophistication of weapons employed during modern warfare and the advent of unconventional combat methods (such as the increased use of improvised explosive devices). There is some evidence to show, however, that the usage of military body armor impairs physical performance. This review of the literature will focus on the effect of body armor on the performance of, and physiological and subjective responses during, military-style physical tasks. Because of the paucity of research investigating body armor, this review will also draw upon more generalized personal protective clothing and equipment literature from a range of physically demanding occupations (i.e., firefighting and other emergency services). The review will conclude with suggested directions for future research in this area.

Keywordsphysiological heat strain; physical performance; combat body armor; casualties; Iraqi freedom; load carriage; exercise; comfort; sensation; demands; impact
ANZSRC Field of Research 2020420702. Exercise physiology
350505. Occupational and workplace health and safety
420799. Sports science and exercise not elsewhere classified
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Byline AffiliationsDeakin University
Curtin University
Institution of OriginUniversity of Southern Queensland
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