Participate in a Study
PREPARED for Heat
Why? In emergency situations, the military can be tasked with missions that go against the Army’s recommended work/rest guidance for hot environments. These periods of increased work and/or reduced rest cause greater risk of heat illnesses and reduce performance, both of which could put the missions in jeopardy. Yet, the impact of work/rest cycles of marching in a hot environment on how hot someone becomes, and muscle fatigue is unknown. The overall goal of this project is to identify a work/rest cycle that allows for faster performance needed in emergency situations than current Army heat guidance, while limiting how hot and fatigued someone becomes. Completion of this project will allow military leaders to make informed decisions by understanding the impact of their choices on performance and expected heat illnesses, setting up hot weather missions for success.
Who? You may be eligible to participate in this study if you are a healthy, active, non-smoking, male or female between the ages of 18 and 39.
What? We expect that you will be in this research study for 28 hours, spread out over 6 visits.
The first visit (2.5 hours) will be for explaining the study, screening your ability to participate, familiarization with the procedures that will occur during the next visits, and an exercise test. The second visit (1 hour) will familiarize you with study procedures. You would then complete 4 additional study visits (6 - 6.5 hours each), during which you will walk on a treadmill with a weighted backpack at different intensities for 120 minutes with randomized work/rest cycles. You will also complete tasks before and after the walking to measure your strength and walking patterns. By participating in the study, you will be compensated up to $460 ($15/h + $40 finishing bonus).
Where? Sherman Annex on UB South Campus (Main St and Bailey Ave)
When? We try to work around your availability, generally scheduling between 7am and 5pm on weekdays.
Email Riana Pryor at RPryor@buffalo.edu
Who can participate?
Each study has its own set of criteria of who can participate, depending on the specific research question. In general, most of our studies are looking for participants who are generally healthy and willing to come to our laboratory and exercise or rest in different environments. Please email Dr. Riana Pryor (rpryor@buffalo.edu) to determine if you are eligible to participate in our studies.
We're happy to answer questions about our participation in our studies, student hands-on research and learning opportunities, and the implementation of health and safety prevention and intervention strategies in physically active populations. Email Riana Pryor at RPryor@buffalo.edu.