A series of experiments involving the Qigong (Q-G) maneuver were conducted after our preliminary studies in 1986. Eighteen active fighter pilots served as subjects. After mastery of the Q-G maneuver in 5-7 sessions of training, tests at +1 Gz further verified that the blood pressure raising effect of this maneuver has the characteristics of rapid rising, minimal fluctuation and being readily maintained. The 18 subjects then underwent centrifuge tests. The tolerance to Rapid Onset Rate (ROR) (1 G/s) G-load in a relaxed, unprotected condition was 3.82 G on average; performing the Q-G maneuver, the tolerance rose to 6.64 G, an improvement of 2.82 G. One to two days later, 5 subjects with anti-G suits on and performing the Q-G maneuver tolerated 7.80 G on average (ROR 1 G/s), a gain of 3.95 G. Another 9 subjects performing the Q-G maneuver endured high sustained G (HSG) (ROR 3 G/s) of 6.5 G for 74.4 s on average (max 96 s) and 3 subjects endured HSG of 7.0 G for 57 s on average (max 82 s). During centrifuge tests, recorded physiological values showed good tolerance of the subjects; the respiratory pattern was basically different from that of M-1 or L-1 maneuvers. In further testing the harmlessness of the Q-G maneuver, gas metabolism, ear lobe oximetry and 8-channel EEG were carried out on these subjects. All these indices plus close monitoring during centrifuge tests proved that the Q-G maneuver does not lead to hypoxia or hyperventilation. It has been shown that the Q-G maneuver is an innovative G-protective maneuver that is remarkably effective, theoretically interesting, reliable, and practical. Its mechanism warrants investigation.
Adult Aerospace Medicine