Abstract
PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of body composition and physical fitness of Air Force pilots on hypoxic tolerance (Time of Useful Consciousness, TUC) under hypoxic hypoxic conditions. METHODS: At the sea level, we measured the body composition and physical fitness of 99 adults who were not exposed to hypoxic environment. In the hypoxia chamber, which can simulate high altitudes, we set the altitude to 25,000 feet and measured the TUC and the maximum heart rate (HRmax(H)). Pearson's Correlation was used to determine the relationship between TUC and other variables, and multiple regression was performed to determine the independent variables that best explain the TUC. RESULTS: TUC is positively correlated with maximum oxygen uptake (VO2max), Stroke Volume (SV), arteriovenous oxygen difference (a-vO2 diff) and endurance (Sit-up, Push-up). The maximum heart rate on the ground (HRmax(S)), HRmax(H), body fat mass, and percent body fat were negatively correlated with TUC. A regression analysis showed that 84.5% of the TUC can be explained by body composition and physical fitness. CONCLUSION: Our results revealed that increased cardiorespiratory fitness and decreased fat could significantly impact TUC. Therefore, for Air Force pilots who are always at high altitudes and at risk for exposure to hypoxia, aerobic exercise is essential.
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