We're currently looking to recruit adults between the ages of 18 and 50 who are accustomed to torso-borne load carriage (i.e. backpack, weighted vest, body armor, etc.). This research study will quantify the effect of torso-borne loads on respiratory muscle fatigue, performance, and lower body skeletal muscle oxygenation and to determine the extent to which sex differences and aerobic capacity influence these effects.

Load carriage experience will be defined as training with or wearing load on the torso at least 25 times, for at least one hour, in the last year. This includes loads worn both occupationally and recreationally. This is a 3-day study. The study involves coming to the Paul McDermott Physical Education Complex at the UNLV campus and will include a maximal aerobic exercise test (VO2max test) and two 40+ minute exercise tests to exhaustion, with each test either with or without a ~60 lb. load. The load will consist of a 22 kg (~44 lb. plate carrier), 3 kg (~6 lb) dummy rifle, and 3 kg (~6 lb) ballistic helmet. The total time requirement is approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes to 2 hours for each visit.

This is a great opportunity to experience tactical research and to assess your own aerobic fitness. Email me if you are interested in participating or for more information at Kathryn.bell@unlv.edu or Dr. Brian Schilling at brian.schilling@unlv.edu.

IRB: UNLV-2023-643