Affiliations:
School of Integrative Physiology and Athletic Training, University of Montana, Missoula, MT, USA
Correspondence:
[*]
Address for correspondence: Valerie Moody PhD, LAT, ATC, CSCS, School of Integrative Physiology and Athletic Training, University of Montana, 32 Campus Dr. McGill 205, Missoula, MT 59812, USA. Tel.: +1 406 243 2703; Fax: +1 406 243 6252; E-mail: valerie.moody@umontana.edu.
Abstract: BACKGROUND:Smokejumpers are required to parachute from planes, carry gear weighing more than 50 kg, and hike on steep terrain. With a majority of injuries sustained to the lower extremity, it is imperative to understand the influence a weighted pack may have on functional performance. OBJECTIVE:To examine the effects of external load on functional movements in Smokejumpers. METHODS:Using repeated measures design, ten Smokejumpers completed two trials consisting of 3 movements in weighted (50 kg) and unweighted conditions. Nine males and one female (age of 40.1±8.4 years, mass 81.1±8.3 kg) performed overhead squat, hurdle step and anterior reach. Movements were scored based on established guidelines. The mean of three trials was recorded for anterior reach on both limbs. RESULTS:Differences between weighted and unweighted scores in the overhead squat (p = 0.001), ND hurdle step (p = 0.005), D hurdle step (p = 0.000) and overall composite scores (p = 0.006) were found to be significantly different. Differences were also noted in D (p = 0.035) and ND (p = 0.045) anterior reach. CONCLUSIONS:The addition of a weighted pack negatively influences functional movements in Smokejumpers, which may lead to greater injury risk. Implementation of injury prevention strategies to reduce occupational injury risk should be explored.
