Fitness Profiles in Elite Tactical Units: A Critical Review

Objective:
Elite tactical units are frequently deployed in a variety of locations of high level fitness is required by this population. The aim of this critical narrative review was to identify and synthesize key findings of studies that have investigated the fitness profiles of elite tactical units.

Methods:
A systematic search of three databases was conducted using specific search terms to identify relevant studies. These studies were then assessed against key inclusion and exclusion criteria to determine those to be included in the review. Included studies were critically appraised, and level of evidence determined, while the relevant data were extracted, tabulated, and synthesized. Results: Fourteen identified studies ranged in percentage quality scores from 46% to 66% with a mean of 57.5%, with a moderate interrater agreement as seen in the Cohen’s Kappa coefficient, κ = 0.496. A variety of fitness measures were used in various domains of fitness. The most common measures were in the areas of anthropometric measures, strength, power, and aerobic capacity. However, there was high variety in the tools and procedures to used these areas.

Conclusion:
Though fitness is a critical part of research and practice, there is no standardized measure or result for this population. Further research needs to be done in the development of a fitness profile using standardized outcome measures and covers the spectrum of the fitness requirements for this population.