Aviator’s physical fitness program comparison ….doc

Aviator’s Physical Fitness Program comparison between ROKAF and USAF 2007 Advanced Aerospace Medicine of International Medical Officers Aerospace medical Center, ROKAF Maj. ChangHo, An I. INTRODUCTION Air Power is important to take the victory in the modern war and is increasing the role. As we know, Pilots are needed a lot of knowledge and skills to be a successful fighter aircrew, and also they are needed, most of all, strong physical fitness ability including aerobic and anaerobic fitness. So many military organizations require personnel to pass a periodic physical fitness examination consisting of aerobic and strength components. In the fast jet community, anaerobic capacity confers proven advantage in high G maneuvering typical of air combat maneuvers. Because anti G straining maneuver is primarily fueled anaerobically with muscular strength as a principal factor in its intensity that provides the G-level protection capability. Both anaerobic capacity and muscular strength can be increased with a weight lifting, high-intensity, physical conditioning program. Research shown that a 10- to 12 week weight lifting program can increased G-duration tolerance approximately 50% compared with a nonexistent control group with a direct individual correlation between muscular strength and G duration tolerance. Theoretically, aerobic fitness should be beneficial for sustained or repeated high G flight. However, Aerobic conditioning, such as distance running, has no effect on G tolerance. In addition, strenuous aerobic training is discouraged for these aviators, because the lowered vagal tone induced by high aerobic fitness negatively affects G tolerance. Exercise helps relieve stress; it also provides a buffer against fatigue. These are distinct advantages in the fatigue and stress-prone military environment Last year, ROKAF lost F-15K fighter including 2 pilots and investigated Accident and then announced the cause of mishap was G-LOC. It is surprised that two pilot