Prediction of stress level in military submariners, based on physical conditioning and sleep quality variables

Abstract

The objective of the study was to predict the level of stress in military submariners based on physical fitness and sleep quality variables. Cross-sectional and correlational research, with a sample of 40 male submariners (28.70±3.98 years old). Body mass and composition data were analyzed (MCT), height, BMI, waist, body fat (%G), dominant handgrip (PMDom), cardiorespiratory fitness (VO2max), squats, sit-ups, relative power of lower limbs (PotRel MMII), stress (PSS-10), Epworth Sleepiness Assessment (ESE) and Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI). Overall, negative associations (p<0.05) were observed between VO2max and MCT, BMI, %BF, and waist; PotRel MMII and age and %BF; squat and %G; sit-up and MCT, BMI, %BF and waist; and finally, stress and VO2max and sit-up. Furthermore, positive associations (p<0.05) between BMI and MCT; %BF and MCT and BMI; waist and age, BMI, MCT, and %BF; squats and PMdom., VO2max and PotRel MMII; sit-ups and VO2max, PotRel LL and squats; ending with PSQI and stress. Furthermore, among the stress level prediction equation models developed, the equation Stress=15.92+1.538(PSQI)-0.497(VO2max)+0.188(Squat) met the proposed requirements, which is based on sleep quality, cardiorespiratory fitness, and number of squats. Keywords: Submariner; stress, physical fitness, sleep quality, military personal.