Effects of high-intensity functional training on tactical personnel

The Effects of High-Intensity Functional Training Versus Traditional Strength Training or Concurrent Training on Performance and Readiness in Tactical Populations

Not applicable Interventional University of South Carolina · NCT06582251

This study tests if high-intensity functional training can improve physical performance and readiness better than traditional resistance training or a mix of resistance and interval training for tactical personnel.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment48 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 35 Years
SexAll
SponsorUniversity of South Carolina Academic / other
Locations1 site (Columbia, South Carolina)
Trial IDNCT06582251 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study investigates the effects of high-intensity functional training (HIFT) compared to traditional resistance training (RT) and concurrent training (RT plus high-intensity interval training) on physical performance, body composition, and readiness in tactical personnel. Over an 8-week period, participants will undergo various training interventions and complete assessments including body composition and maximal strength testing. The study aims to evaluate the distinct impacts of each training method on performance metrics and overall physical readiness.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are healthy males and females aged 18 to 35 enrolled in a reserve officer training corps program.

Not a fit: Patients with musculoskeletal injuries or metabolic disorders may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could enhance the physical performance and readiness of tactical personnel, potentially improving their operational effectiveness.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown positive outcomes with high-intensity training approaches, suggesting potential for success in this study as well.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Males and females between the ages of 18 and 35 (inclusive) and enrolled in a reserve officer training corps program.
* Subject has provided written and dated informed consent to participate in the study.
* Subject is in good health as determined by medical history and is cleared for exercise.
* BMI between 17.0 and 29.9 kg/m2.
* "Good" category or greater for their aerobic capacity according to the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) normative data for their age and sex as measured at their baseline visit.

Exclusion Criteria:

* Participants with any musculoskeletal injuries that would prevent completion of these exercise programs.
* Participants with any metabolic disorder, including known electrolyte abnormalities, uncontrolled diabetes, uncontrolled thyroid disease, adrenal disease, or hypogonadism.
* Participants with a history of hepatorenal, musculoskeletal, autoimmune, or neurologic disease.
* Participants who have lost or gained greater than eight pounds within three months prior to study enrollment.
* Participants currently taking hyperlipidemic, hypoglycemic, anti-hypertensive, or anti-coagulant medications.
* Participants who are pregnant or lactating.

Where this trial is running

Columbia, South Carolina

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Healthyhigh-intensity functional trainingtacticalmilitary
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.