Pandolf Equation Efficacy In Predicting Gender-Specific Energy Expenditure Differences While Carrying Light To Heavy Loads

Abstract

With the recent decision permitting women to enter Combat Arms roles in the military, knowledge of gender-based differences in energy expenditure (EE) during load carriage has become more operationally relevant. However, one of the most common equations for predicting the energy cost of load carriage has not been systematically compared between male and female Soldiers. PURPOSE: To examine the efficacy of the Pandolf equation [1] to predict EE of male and female Soldiers while carrying light to heavy loads. METHODS: Seven women were individually matched with 7 men by height and body weight (differences < 2.54 cm and 4.54 kg for each pair). All participants walked at 1.34 m[BULLET OPERATOR]s-1 for 10-min bouts on a level treadmill while unloaded (BW) and then carrying vest-borne loads of 15, 35 and 55 kg. VO data were collected during the last 3 min of each bout. 2-way RM ANOVA compared VO2 at each load between the men and women. Measured results were then compared to equation predictions. RESULTS: Measured EE increased significantly with load and was significantly greater for men (443 ± 92 W) than women (388 ± 97 W). The equation predicted EE more accurately for women at lighter loads and more accurately for men at heavier loads (Figure 1). CONCLUSION: Using height and weight matched men and women, the Pandolf equation was more accurate for predicting EE at the heavier loads for men and at the lighter loads for women. These results support modification of the Pandolf equation to account for differences in gender and carried load. DISCLAIMER: The views expressed in this abstract are those of the authors and do not reflect the official policy of the Department of Army, Department of Defense, or the U.S. Government. [1] Pandolf et al., 1977. J Appl Physiol. Oct; 43(4): 577-81.Figure