Energy expenditure during physical work in cold environments: physiology and performance considerations for military service members

Abstract

Effective execution of military missions in cold environments requires highly trained, well-equipped, and operationally ready service members. Understanding the metabolic energetic demands of performing physical work in extreme cold conditions is critical for individual medical readiness of service members. In this narrative review, we describe 1) the extreme energy costs of performing militarily relevant physical work in cold environments, 2) key factors specific to cold environments that explain these additional energy costs, 3) additional environmental factors that modulate the metabolic burden, 4) medical readiness consequences associated with these circumstances, and 5) potential countermeasures to be developed to aid future military personnel. Key characteristics of the cold operational environment that cause excessive energy expenditure in military personnel include thermoregulatory mechanisms, winter apparel, inspiration of cold air, inclement weather, and activities specific to cold weather. The combination of cold temperatures with other environmental stressors, including altitude, wind, and wet environments exacerbates the overall metabolic strain on military service members. The high energy cost of working in these environments increases the risk of undesirable consequences, including negative energy balance, dehydration, and subsequent decrements in physical and cognitive performance. Such consequences may be mitigated by the application of enhanced clothing and equipment design, wearable technologies for biomechanical assistance and localized heating, thermogenic pharmaceuticals, and cold habituation and training guidance. Altogether, the reduction in energy expenditure of modern military personnel during physical work in cold environments would promote desirable operational outcomes and optimize the health and performance of service members.