ABSTRACT
The carriage of heavy loads by military personnel increases injury risk. This study aims to examine the effect of carrying military loads on GRF parameters. Fifteen male participants completed 8 conditions; Boot, rifle, webbing 8 and 16 kg, backpack 16 kg, and a load carriage system of 24, 32 and 40 kg. Results showed that as load was added there was a proportional increase in all major GRF parameters. Rifle carriage anteriorly in the arms increased the impact peak and propulsive forces while decreasing the force minimum. Webbing loaded with 16 kg increased impact peaks compared to the backpack, but the pack increased stance times. As increased GRF are positively linked to overuse injuries the analysis of how carried load affects these are important to understand military injuries.
