The Navy SEAL Physical Fitness Guide - Uniformed Services ...

" Optimize acclimation by a carefully scripted exercise program from the medicaldepartment." Plan for decreased physical performance the first two weeks." Maintain proper hydration." Be aware of any illness that may predispose to dehydration (diarrhea, vomiting,fever)." Always be aware of the warning signs of heat illness: Pay attention to yourbody. Slow down or stop if signs or symptoms of heat injury become apparent." Avoid drugs and other substances that predispose to dehydration or heat injuries.Training in ColdEnvironmentsCold climates represent the harshest environments and pose the greatest threat tosurvive that SEALs face. An unprotected man in an extremely cold environment will perishmuch faster than when exposed to extreme heat. In cold weather, the human body attemptsto maintain a warm core temperature primarily by physiologic mechanisms and behavioraladaptations:" Increased Metabolic Heat Production: This occurs as the body's fuels (carbohydrates,fats and proteins) are metabolized or “burned” at the cellularlevel. Shivering represents involuntary muscle contractions that can increasethe body’s metabolic rate five to six times above normal." Peripheral Vasoconstriction: Blood vessels near the surface of the skin constrictor narrow in an effort to divert warm blood away from the cool surfaceof the skin." Behavioral Adaptations: Mans greatest asset in cold weather is his ability tocreate a warm micro-environment by wearing appropriate protective clothingor seeking shelter. He can also increase resting metabolic heat production by10 times through vigorous exercise.What is a cold environment? As with a hot environment, the temperature alone isnot necessarily the best indication of coldness. In the heat, humidity, and in the cold, thewind, can greatly change your comfort level. In the cold, wind accelerates heat loss byreplacing the warm layer of air surrounding the body with colder air. As a rule, you can be190 Training for Specific Environments