TSAC Report #82 – Military Column – July 2026
by Mark Stephenson, MS, ATC, CSCS,*D, TSAC-F,*D
TSAC Report
September 2026
Vol 82, Issue 5
This article examines military-specific VO₂max testing protocols and how individualized assessments can improve fitness evaluation and combat readiness.
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This article originally appeared in TSAC Report, the NSCA’s quarterly, online-only publication geared toward the training of tactical athletes, operators, and facilitators. It provides research-based articles, performance drills, and conditioning techniques for operational, tactical athletes. The TSAC Report is only available for NSCA Members. Read more articles from TSAC Report
1. Dössegger, A, Zberg, L, Gsponer, T, Faude, O, Gerber, M, Flück, M, et al. A ramp protocol with increasing incline and additional weight for special operation forces provides a valid assessment of VO2max. Military Medicine 191(5-6): e1086-1094, 2026.
2. Rasmussen, RS, Jensen, JS, Rasmussen, IE, Hartmann, JP, Egeberg, CS, Lytzen, AA, et al. Cardiopulmonary function in special operations forces compared to conventional infantry soldiers. Experimental Physiology 111(4): 1626-1635, 2025.
3. Schafer, E, Chapman, C, Roberts, B, Stein, J, Jacques, J, Friedl, K, et al. Validity and test-retest reliability of a speed-based maximal oxygen uptake (VO2max) protocol in military personnel. Journal of Sport and Human Performance 13: 27-39, 2025.
4. Swearingen, JT, Weiss, LW, Smith, WA, Stephenson, MD, and Schilling, BK. Potential utility of a loaded treadmill protocol for tactical athletes. Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research 32: 610-616, 2018.
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Topics:
Exercise Science Exercise Technique Program design Organization and Administration Testing and Evaluation Client Consultation|Assessment Safety Basic Pathophysiology and Science of Health Status or Condition and Disorder or Disease Professional Development
Exercise Science Exercise Technique Program design Organization and Administration Testing and Evaluation Client Consultation|Assessment Safety Basic Pathophysiology and Science of Health Status or Condition and Disorder or Disease Professional Development
Keywords:
Sport Performance Operational Readiness VO₂max Testing Tactical Athlete Military Fitness Assessment Aerobic Conditioning Endurance Training
Sport Performance Operational Readiness VO₂max Testing Tactical Athlete Military Fitness Assessment Aerobic Conditioning Endurance Training
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