Female Exposure to High G: Chronic Adaptations of Cardiovascular Functions.

Exposure to microgravity is associated with increased leg venous compliance and reductions in cardiac output, baroreflex functions, and tolerance to orthostatism. However, the effects of chronic exposure to high-G environments are unknown. In addition, there is evidence that females have lower orthostatic tolerance than males, although the underlying mechanisms are unclear. Therefore, we tested the hypotheses that high-G training will enhance baroreflex and orthostatic functions and that females will demonstrate similar adaptations compared with males. Results: G-training increased calf compliance in both men and women. Stroke volume and cardiac output were increased during the squat-to-stand test in the males, but not in the females, following G-training and provided protection against the development of acute hypotension in the men. Conclusions: G-training caused adaptations in orthostatic functions opposite to those observed following exposure to microgravity environments. However, adaptations to G-training were limited in females, a finding that may provide a physiological basis for their lower simulated combat tracking performance during simulated aerial combat maneuvers compared with males.