Examining the effects of a weighted pack on functional movements in smokejumpers

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.