Accession Number:

ADP010993

Title:

The Effects of Load Weight: A Summary Analysis of Maximal Performance, Physiological, and Biomechanical Results from Four Studies of Load-Carriage Systems

Descriptive Note:

Corporate Author:

ARMY NATICK SOLDIER CENTER MA SUPPORTING SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY DIRECTORATE

Personal Author(s):

• Polcyn, Amy F.
• Bessel, Carolyn K.
• Harman, Everett A.
• Obusek, John P.

Report Date:

2001-05-01

Pagination or Media Count:

12.0

Abstract:

Data from studies of standard and prototype load-carriage equipment were analyzed to determine the effects of the weight borne by male and female load carriers on time to traverse a 3.2-km course at self-paced, maximal speed and on energy expenditure and kinetic and kinematic variables during externally paced walking at 4.8 kmexp h-1. The equipment configurations included fighting, approach, and sustainment loads, with masses varying from 12 kg to 50 kg. it was found that course completion times and energy expenditure were directly related to the weight carried. The effects of load weight on the kinematic and kinetic variables were more complex. They included evidence of adaptations in walking gait that are likely to aid the load carrier in maintaining stability and in absorbing the increased forces associated with increased load on the body.

Descriptors:

• *KINEMATICS
• *PERFORMANCE(HUMAN)
• *PHYSIOLOGICAL EFFECTS
• *PHYSICAL FITNESS
• *BIOMECHANICS
• CARGO VEHICLES
• WALKING
• VARIABLES
• CONFIGURATIONS
• WEIGHT
• KINETICS
• ENERGY CONSUMPTION
• FEMALES

Subject Categories:

• Stress Physiology
• Mechanics

Distribution Statement:

APPROVED FOR PUBLIC RELEASE