Exercise Aboard Attack Submarines: Rationale and New Options

Abstract : Substantial scientific evidence supports the potential benefits of exercise for submariners: regular exercise improves many human functions that directly apply to submarine operations. These benefits include improved alertness, cognitive function, immune function, weight control, strength and fitness (for damage control, etc.), mood state, responses to stress, sleep quality, and quality of life. However, most submariners do not exercise during deployment for a variety of reasons, including lack of space, time limitations, equipment limitations, lack of entertainment or recreational value associated with exercise, low oxygen levels, high carbon dioxide levels, and hygiene challenges. A need exists to significantly improve participation in and effectiveness of exercise for submariners, in part by increasing the variety and effectiveness of available exercise options, and also by making exercise on submarines more enjoyable. Submarine Fitness Coordinators report that equipment limitations constitute one of the most important and addressable problems. Fitness Coordinators and the authors identified the following desirable exercise device characteristics: effective, durable, safe, quiet, small, fun, easy and convenient to use, and not unduly expensive. Several existing and emerging exercise technologies exist to improve upon those currently in use aboard submarines. Integration of virtual environments with exercise hardware represents one of the most interesting and promising emerging technologies. Improving exercise capabilities for submariners also augments the means and ability for special operations units deployed aboard submarines to maintain fitness.