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Tactical Athlete Health and Performance
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Tactical Athlete Health and Performance

A special issue of Journal of Functional Morphology and Kinesiology (ISSN 2411-5142). This special issue belongs to the section "Sports Medicine and Nutrition".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 31 August 2025 | Viewed by 4045

Special Issue Editor

Dr. Angelia Maleah Holland-Winkler

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Nutrition, Exercise and Stress Laboratory, Department of Kinesiology, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA
Interests: nutrition; cardiovascular health; body composition; physical performance; tactical athletes
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Tactical athletes include firefighters, law enforcement officers, and military personnel, who often work in physiologically and psychologically stressful environments. Optimal physical and mental health, fitness, nutrition, and sleep are needed to perform the challenging and sometimes dangerous tasks required of them on a daily basis. Thus, it is important to determine strategies to support their health, performance, and overall safety throughout their occupational career.

This Special Issue's focus areas include health, physical conditioning, nutrition and hydration, mental health, injury prevention, environmental adaptations, and sleep in tactical athletes. Other topics related to improving the health and performance of tactical athletes will also be considered.

Dr. Angelia Maleah Holland-Winkler
Guest Editor

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Journal of Functional Morphology and Kinesiology is an international peer-reviewed open access quarterly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 1600 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • tactical athletes
  • physical conditioning
  • nutrition and hydration
  • injury prevention
  • environmental adaptations
  • performance optimization
  • health strategies
  • occupational safety

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Published Papers (6 papers)

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Research

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11 pages, 695 KiB  
Article
Relationship Between Systemic Inflammation and Glycemic Control in Firefighters
by Tiffany J. Oberther, Andrew R. Moore, Austin A. Kohler and A. Maleah Holland-Winkler
J. Funct. Morphol. Kinesiol. 2025, 10(2), 148; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfmk10020148 - 27 Apr 2025
Viewed by 77
Abstract
Background: Firefighters are at risk for developing metabolic diseases such as type 2 diabetes due to occupational-related stress and poor health behaviors. Firefighters often experience chronic inflammatory responses that may contribute to the development of insulin resistance. This study examined the relationship [...] Read more.
Background: Firefighters are at risk for developing metabolic diseases such as type 2 diabetes due to occupational-related stress and poor health behaviors. Firefighters often experience chronic inflammatory responses that may contribute to the development of insulin resistance. This study examined the relationship between systemic inflammation markers and glycemic control markers in firefighters. Methods: Blood samples were collected from twenty full-time male firefighters to assess HbA1c, fasting glucose, and insulin to estimate the Homeostatic Model of Assessment of Insulin Resistance (HOMA-IR), C-reactive protein (CRP), and homocysteine. Body composition and cardiovascular metrics were also recorded. Pearson partial correlation analyses were performed to evaluate relationships between homocysteine and CRP and the variables HOMA-IR and HbA1c while controlling for age and body fat percentage (BF%). SPSS version 29 was used for all analyses (α = 0.05). Data transformation was used where appropriate to ensure the normal distribution of each variable. Results: A significant positive correlation was found between homocysteine and HbA1c before (p = 0.006, r = 0.605) and after controlling for age and BF% (ppartial = 0.013, rpartial = 0.588), indicating that homocysteine levels are associated with impaired glycemic control in firefighters. No other relationships were found to be significant. Conclusions: The findings support a potential link between systemic inflammation and poor glycemic control in firefighters. Due to the occupational hazards that contribute to chronic inflammation, targeted interventions such as dietary modifications may help decrease the risk of diabetes and cardiovascular disease in this high-risk population. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Tactical Athlete Health and Performance)
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17 pages, 306 KiB  
Article
The Association of Body Composition and Musculoskeletal Characteristics with Police Recruit Performance: A Cross-Sectional Study
by Vanessa R. Sutton, Myles C. Murphy, Callum J. McCaskie, Paola T. Chivers, Nicolas H. Hart, Jodie L. Cochrane Wilkie, Garth Allen and Jack Dalla Via
J. Funct. Morphol. Kinesiol. 2025, 10(2), 132; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfmk10020132 - 15 Apr 2025
Viewed by 383
Abstract
Objective: Exploring how body composition and musculoskeletal characteristics relate to physical performance may provide insights for optimising training outcomes. We explored if body composition and musculoskeletal characteristics were associated with tactical and cardiorespiratory performance. Methods: A cross-sectional study of police recruits [...] Read more.
Objective: Exploring how body composition and musculoskeletal characteristics relate to physical performance may provide insights for optimising training outcomes. We explored if body composition and musculoskeletal characteristics were associated with tactical and cardiorespiratory performance. Methods: A cross-sectional study of police recruits within the Western Australia Police Force was performed. Total and regional body composition was assessed using Dual-energy X-ray Absorptiometry, with the tibial morphology and mid-thigh muscle cross-sectional area assessed using peripheral Quantitative Computed Tomography. Tactical performance was measured with a Physical Performance Evaluation, and cardiorespiratory fitness assessed using the Beep Test. Variables that were significant in univariate regressions progressed to generalised linear models, assessing relationships between measures and performance outcomes. Results: Twenty-seven recruits aged 21–51 years (40.7% female) participated. Better tactical performance was associated with lower body fat percentage (p < 0.001), lower body mass index (p < 0.001), higher appendicular muscle mass (p = 0.005), and a lower proximal (66%) tibia polar cross-section moment of inertia (p = 0.007). Better cardiorespiratory fitness was associated with lower body fat percentage (p = 0.004), higher appendicular lean mass (p = 0.006), a lower proximal (66%) tibia polar cross-section moment of inertia (p = 0.005), and a higher mid-thigh muscle cross-sectional area (p < 0.001). Conclusions: Various body composition and musculoskeletal characteristics are associated with tactical performance and cardiorespiratory fitness in WA police recruits. Lower body fat percentage and higher appendicular muscle mass were associated with both better cardiorespiratory fitness and tactical performance, highlighting the potential relevance of these characteristics in preparing police recruits for operational duties. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Tactical Athlete Health and Performance)
16 pages, 277 KiB  
Article
The Effect of Fitness on Performance, Exertion, and Cognition During Simulated Firefighter Occupational Tasks
by Philip J. Agostinelli, Nicholas C. Bordonie, Braxton A. Linder, Ann M. Robbins, Parker L. Jones, Lee F. Reagan, C. Brooks Mobley, Matthew W. Miller, William M. Murrah and JoEllen M. Sefton
J. Funct. Morphol. Kinesiol. 2025, 10(2), 129; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfmk10020129 - 11 Apr 2025
Viewed by 366
Abstract
Background: Fitness is relevant for firefighter occupational performance, but its influence on exertion and cognition during occupational tasks remains unclear. We aim to determine fitness’s influence on performance, exertion, and cognition during simulated firefighter occupational tasks. Methods: Two baseline fitness assessments occurred to [...] Read more.
Background: Fitness is relevant for firefighter occupational performance, but its influence on exertion and cognition during occupational tasks remains unclear. We aim to determine fitness’s influence on performance, exertion, and cognition during simulated firefighter occupational tasks. Methods: Two baseline fitness assessments occurred to measure aerobic fitness, strength, power, and body composition in 33 non-firefighter participants (females/males: 15/18; 25.18 ± 4.06 years; 174.01 ± 9.77 cm; 75.94 ± 13.18 kg). A third visit involved participants completing an occupational task assessment (OTA; four rounds of deadlifts, sandbag carries, and a cognitive assessment at 35 °C/50% humidity) to the best of their ability. Multiple linear regression models, including strength and power, aerobic capacity, and body composition, were used to predict OTA performance and exertion. Our outcomes included time to complete, exertion, and cognitive performance during the OTA. Results: The model predicted OTA time, RPE, skin temperature, and blood lactate (ps < 0.02), but not core temperature (p > 0.24). The model did not predict cognitive errors (ps > 0.06). Conclusions: These metrics of fitness provide meaningful predictive insight into firefighters’ occupational readiness during simulated occupational tasks. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Tactical Athlete Health and Performance)
14 pages, 841 KiB  
Article
Exploring the Interplay of Handgrip Neuromuscular, Morphological, and Psychological Characteristics in Tactical Athletes and General Population: Gender- and Occupation-Based Specific Patterns
by Miloš M. Milošević, Nenad Koropanovski, Marko Vuković, Branislav Božović, Filip Kukić, Miloš R. Mudrić, Andreas Stamatis and Milivoj Dopsaj
J. Funct. Morphol. Kinesiol. 2025, 10(1), 22; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfmk10010022 - 4 Jan 2025
Viewed by 901
Abstract
Background/Objectives: The correlation of handgrip strength (HGS) and morphological characteristics with Big Five personality traits is well documented. However, it is unclear whether these relationships also exist in highly trained and specialized populations, such as tactical athletes, and whether there are specific differences [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: The correlation of handgrip strength (HGS) and morphological characteristics with Big Five personality traits is well documented. However, it is unclear whether these relationships also exist in highly trained and specialized populations, such as tactical athletes, and whether there are specific differences compared to the general population. This study aimed to explore the interplay of handgrip neuromuscular, morphological, and psychological characteristics in tactical athletes and the general population of both genders. Methods: The research was conducted on a sample of 205 participants. A standardized method, procedure, and equipment (Sports Medical solutions) were used to measure the isometric neuromuscular characteristics of the handgrip. Basic morphological characteristics of body height, body mass, and body mass index were measured with a portable stadiometer and the InBody 720 device. Psychological characteristics were assessed with the Mental Toughness Index and Dark Triad Dirty Dozen questionnaires. Results: Numerous significant correlations were obtained, as well as differences between tactical athletes and the general population of both genders. The most prominent correlations were between the excitation index with Psychopathy and the Dark Triad (ρ = −0.41, −0.39) in female tactical athletes, as well as Neuroticism with body height, maximal force, and the maximum rate of force development in the male general population (ρ = 0.49, 0.43, 0.41). The obtained results also revealed gender and occupational specific patterns of researched relationships. Conclusions: Although the results of this study indicated the possibility of the existence of correlations between handgrip neuromuscular, morphological, and psychological characteristics in tactical athletes of both genders, nevertheless, at the moment, there is not enough solid evidence for that. That is why new research is needed. An analysis of muscle contractile and time parameters as neuromuscular indicators in the HGS task proved to be a possible promising method, which brought numerous new insights about the researched relationships. For practical application in the field, we propose including Mental Toughness and the Dark Triad traits in the selection process for future police officers and national security personnel based on the obtained results. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Tactical Athlete Health and Performance)
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11 pages, 1449 KiB  
Article
Effects of Specific RAMP Protocol Phase on Change of Direction Speed of Police Students
by Filip Kukić, Nemanja Zlojutro, Darko Paspalj, Senka Bajić, Saša Kovačević, Lazar Vulin, Nenad Rađević and Nenad Koropanovski
J. Funct. Morphol. Kinesiol. 2024, 9(4), 194; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfmk9040194 - 13 Oct 2024
Viewed by 1211
Abstract
Background: This study assessed the effects of two distinct RAMP (Raise, Activate, Mobilize, Potentiate) protocols, mobility-focused and reactiveness-focused, on change of direction speed in police students (i.e., tactical athletes). Methods: A longitudinal design with two experimental and one control group was employed. The [...] Read more.
Background: This study assessed the effects of two distinct RAMP (Raise, Activate, Mobilize, Potentiate) protocols, mobility-focused and reactiveness-focused, on change of direction speed in police students (i.e., tactical athletes). Methods: A longitudinal design with two experimental and one control group was employed. The study sample consisted of 39 police students (aged 19.2 ± 0.2 yrs) who were randomly allocated into three equal groups of 13 participants (7 females and 6 males). Experimental groups were labeled as the mobility group or reactiveness group based on the type of RAMP protocol they performed. During the tactical physical education classes, the mobility group performed four complex mobility exercises, while the reactiveness group performed four exercises for trunk reactiveness. After the specific warm-up, both groups continued with syllabus activities. The control group performed only regular activities based on the study syllabus. All participants performed the Illinois Agility test unloaded (IAT) and loaded (10 kg vest [IATL]) and Functional Movement Screening (FMS) before and after 8 weeks of the applied protocols. Results: In general, improvements were observed across all participants in the IAT (p < 0.001), IATL (p < 0.001), and FMS (p < 0.001). The mobility protocol had a more substantial impact compared to the reactiveness protocol on the IAT (d = 0.55 vs. d = 0.40), IATL (d = 0.44 vs. d = 0.38), and FMS (d = 0.88 vs. d = −0.42). Additionally, the control group, which did not follow either RAMP protocol, did not show significant improvements. Conclusions: These results underscore the importance of incorporating targeted mobility training in the limited time available for strength and conditioning programs, as it improves occupationally relevant movement qualities such as change of direction speed ability. Prioritizing mobility training in young tactical athletes may offer broader benefits compared to reactiveness training. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Tactical Athlete Health and Performance)
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Review

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18 pages, 344 KiB  
Review
Determinants of Health and Performance in Wildland Firefighters: A Narrative Review
by Fabio García-Heras, Jorge Gutiérrez-Arroyo, Juan Rodríguez-Medina, Belén Carballo-Leyenda, Pilar Sánchez-Collado, Gerardo Villa-Vicente and Jose A. Rodríguez-Marroyo
J. Funct. Morphol. Kinesiol. 2025, 10(1), 80; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfmk10010080 - 27 Feb 2025
Viewed by 685
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Wildland firefighters (WFFs) are subjected to significant physical and physiological demands that expose them to substantial occupational risks, including thermal stress, prolonged physical exertion, and exposure to harmful substances. These factors not only affect their immediate performance but also have long-term implications [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Wildland firefighters (WFFs) are subjected to significant physical and physiological demands that expose them to substantial occupational risks, including thermal stress, prolonged physical exertion, and exposure to harmful substances. These factors not only affect their immediate performance but also have long-term implications for their health. This narrative review seeks to analyze the main factors influencing the health and performance of WFFs, with a particular focus on physical, environmental, and psychological challenges. Methods: A narrative review was performed, synthesizing data from diverse sources. The analysis centered on studies addressing the physiological, environmental, and psychological aspects of WFF performance. Specific topics included physical workload, exposure to environmental stressors, use of protective equipment, hydration, sleep patterns, and mental health. Results: The review highlights several critical challenges faced by WFFs, including the extreme physical demands of carrying heavy equipment during extended interventions, elevated physiological strain induced by protective gear, and significant health risks associated with smoke inhalation and dehydration. Additionally, inadequate sleep and heightened mental stress were found to impair both cognitive and physical performance. Variations in injury prevalence and patterns of chronic pain were observed, often influenced by factors such as sex, age, and professional experience. Conclusion: To mitigate these risks and enhance the health and performance of WFFs, targeted interventions are essential. These include tailored physical training programs, heat acclimatization strategies, and improved resource management. Future research should aim to integrate these measures comprehensively and address existing knowledge gaps to ensure the long-term well-being of these professionals. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Tactical Athlete Health and Performance)
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