Physiologic performance of women compared to men

Abstract

Observations about the physiologic factors which affected per formance were made on the first women (total 119) admitted to the United States Military Academy, West Point, during their first 8-week training period. The physical requirements during 16½-hr (average) days were essentially the same as required of the men (total 1,366). Results obtained from observations of the women compared to the men were tabulated in the following categories: hospital admissions (3.6 to 2.5%, injuries; 21 to 7.7%, medical conditions); stress fractures (10 to 1%); and loss of duty time (26 to 5% not capable of full duty at end of the 8 weeks). Also measurements were compared for hematocrits, body composition, major muscle groups of the upper and lower extremities, and maximum oxygen consumption. These short- term observations on women and men in an environment of equal physical training show there is a measureable difference in physical performance and that men have the advantage in accomplishing the tasks with fewer injuries or diseases and less apparent stress. Women may be capable of equal efficiency in aerobic metabolism.