Analysis of G-test Results According to Fatigue, Physical Fitness and Body Composition of Air Force Cadets Using Smart Watches

Abstract

PURPOSE: This study aimed to analyze the G-test results based on body composition and heart rate of fourth grade Air Force cadets, identify the relationships among body composition, heart rate, and G-resistance, and provide basic data for pilots and Air Force cadets to strengthen the G-tolerance.METHODS: This study used wearable devices to measure the heart rate and fatigue of 27 fourth-grade cadets of the Air Force Academy. Physical composition and physical fitness were assessed. Based on the measurement results, G-test result analysis and correlation analysis were performed.RESULTS: G-test results showed a steady heart rate (p=.015), deep sleep time (p<.001), and fatigue (p=.008) which have significant differences. Further, a 10-second heart rate at G-test (p<.001) and maximum heart rate (p<.001). There was also a statistically significant difference.CONCLUSIONS: Effective G-test success for Air Force cadets would require improving aerobic performance, continuous fatigue, and physical fitness management. If various variables that affect G-test are analyzed and applied to physical education and physical training through continuous research over the next 2–3 years, it is expected to have a better outcome on the G-test success for every cadet.

Physical strength, body composition, and G-test results of air force cadets based on nutrition knowledge differences

“…Furthermore, muscles strongly contract blood like anti-G suits, increasing blood discharge from the left ventricle of the heart and reducing blood flow to the lower extremities, thereby improving G-resistance by facilitating blood supply to the brain. Increased muscle contraction and respiratory muscle development enhance the effectiveness of anti-G training maneuvers to prevent loss of consciousness 7 , 16 . Metzler (2020) in their study reported the importance to design a program that considers the balance between muscle training and aerobic training 17 .…”

“…In aerial environments, pilots are exposed to various risk factors, including gravity-induced loss of consciousness (G-LOC), hypoxia, cognitive dissonance, hearing loss, and flight illusion. The G-test is a high-intensity physical activity that is greatly influenced by individual body composition and physical strength 6 , Thus, strong physical strength and sufficient nutritional intake are essential 7 .…”