Current RAF deployments to Op TELIC and Op HERRICK involve personnel working in hot and humid conditions. During the summer months temperatures are regularly 46°C with high humidity levels. Personnel may be exposed to these extremes whilst performing their daily tasks, often for extended periods of time, increasing the thermal load placed on their bodies. This load or ‘heat stress’ impairs performance and eventually can lead to heat illness.

Heat Acclimatisation Training (HAT) aims to improve the bodies’ adaptation to the increases in temperature and humidity. Combining exposure to the hot environment with controlled exercise increases the acclimatisation response, with personnel becoming acclimatised to the new environment typically after a period of 14 days.

Upon arriving in Theatre in the Middle East all personnel are required to undergo HAT with the Detachment Physical Training Instructor (DPTI). The amount of training an individual requires is role dependent and based upon the amount of continuous time individuals will be exposed to the hot environment. HAT sessions are run every morning by the DPTI and involve 40-60 minutes of low aerobic work.

The DPTI provides a program of Physical Training (PT) for personnel which also includes, Circuit Training, Studio Cycling and Swimming sessions. This program also includes a range of group sports competitions organised for different sections, including the 901 Expeditionary Air Wing (EAW) Commander’s Cup and challenges against other Coalition Forces.

Corporal Mark Fairhurst explains “As the DPTI for 901 EAW, the programme I run needs to be flexible and adaptable owing to the fact that the deployed UK personnel work different shift patterns. The PT program needs to be organised around this, sometimes early morning and late evening circuits are the only directed PT personnel may be able to attend. The PT program also offers Personal Training, training programs and nutrition advice at different times of the day so individuals can train around their work schedule. I also facilitate fitness testing, advice and training programs for personnel who have been unsuccessful with their RAF Fitness Test, sometimes in theatre they have less distractions so more time can be spent improving their levels of fitness.”

The DPTI also helps to maintain the UK Welfare, Training and Education Centre and ensures that the building is maintained for use by all UK personnel. Working in conjunction with the Detachment Training Development Officer, the DPTI runs activities in line with the Force Development Strategy. Some of these activities enable personnel to get off unit and all allow personnel to spend time away from the work environment, having a positive effect on morale, a key component of the ‘Winning Spirit’ concept.

Photographs: RAF.

Image 1: Technicians put engine blanks on.

Image 2: Movers unload the trooper.

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