Tactical Performance

Methods

15-day assessment in combat engineers with varied training phases

Key Findings

• Overnight HRV reflects workload and stress during training
• HRV sensitive to sleep deprivation and restriction
• HRV returns to baseline faster than subjective measures
• Useful for repeated measurement of allostatic load
• Can inform training periodization and recovery

Limitations

Individual responses vary, context-dependent

Methods

NATO conference review of HRV applications in SOF

Key Findings

• 25+ countries implementing HRV in special ops programs
• Reduced resting HRV linked to stress vulnerability
• HRV used for readiness assessment and recovery tracking
• Wearables enabling real-time monitoring
• Integration with broader human performance programs

Limitations

Operational security limits published details

Methods

HRV assessment before ACFT in military cadets

Key Findings

• HRV indices predict ACFT performance outcomes
• Acute exercise alters HRV in predictable patterns
• Higher baseline HRV associated with better performance
• Can inform daily training readiness decisions
• Useful for monitoring adaptation to military training

Limitations

Specific to military fitness tests, young population

Methods

Systematic review of HRV studies in first responders

Key Findings

• HRV reflects cumulative stress in tactical personnel
• Work stress affects HRV and may predict heart disease
• Over 50% of firefighter deaths linked to stress/exhaustion
• Chronic fatigue reduces HRV in first responders
• HRV monitoring can guide recovery interventions

Limitations

Heterogeneous study designs and populations

Methods

10 years of applied research in law enforcement settings

Key Findings

• Five-module HRVB protocol tailored for operational settings
• Implemented at national police colleges in multiple countries
• Addresses occupational stressors specific to law enforcement
• Methods adapted for training and resource constraints
• Supports both individual and team resilience

Limitations

Requires trained facilitators for implementation

Methods

Large-scale RCT with military personnel before deployment

Key Findings

• HRV biofeedback group showed higher HRV during combat simulation
• Less physiological arousal despite stressful scenarios
• Parasympathetic regulation improved with training
• Effects measurable in realistic stress conditions
• Implications for pre-deployment preparation

Limitations

Single training protocol, varied individual responses