Affiliations: Dartmouth, Nova Scotia, Canada | School of Health and Human Performance, Dalhousie
University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada | Health Promotion Services, Maritime Forces Atlantic,
Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
Note: [] Address for correspondence: L.E. Holt, PhD, School of Health and
Human Performance, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada B3H 3J5.
E-mail: Larry.Holt@dal.ca
Abstract: Physical training (PT) is a significant component in the operational
preparation for Canadian Forces (CF) combat divers. However, in developing the
various components of a PT program, consideration must be given to the
potential for increasing the risk of injury. Indeed, all PT programs should
incorporate components that minimize risks of injury, thereby attempting to
prevent injury. This report identifies high-risk activities associated with PT
during a CF Combat Diving Course and contains recommendations for PT
modifications. Major high-risk activities identified were: inappropriate
exercises, errors in exercise prescription, particularly in intensity and
duration and incorrect lifting methods. From a specificity of training
perspective, there is little support for the incorporation of 'dry land flutter
kick' (i.e., repetitive, unsupported alternating straight leg raises), or high
repetitions of push-ups, sit-ups and chin-ups in the training of CF combat
diving candidates. Excessive use of these exercises, as performed during
training, pose a high-risk for injury and are not recommended.
