Physiology of Health and Performance: Enabling Success of Women in Combat Arms Roles.

This article focuses on the evolving understanding of female soldier physiology as women increasingly enter combat roles in the U.S. and U.K. militaries. It highlights research-driven changes in physical training, testing, and equipment design—such as the U.S. Army's Holistic Health and Fitness (H2F) system and the Army Combat Fitness Test (ACFT)—aimed at optimizing female performance and reducing musculoskeletal injuries (MSKI), particularly bone stress injuries (BSI). The article emphasizes female-specific physiological factors, including the "estrogen advantage" that supports metabolic efficiency and mental endurance, and the importance of preserving menstrual function for skeletal health. It also addresses challenges related to body composition standards, postpartum return-to-duty protocols, and the need for properly fitted personal equipment like athletic bras and body armor tailored to female anatomy.