In the field of tactical strength and conditioning, recent research has focused on enhancing operational readiness, preventing injuries, and implementing advanced periodisation models. Tactical populations include operators from law enforcement, military, fire, and emergency response units. Specifically, this dissertation examines the monitoring strategies employed by operators serving in combative environments and proficient in weapons and tactics, referred to as “specialist tactical populations.” Combative environments are characterised by high levels of conflict, violence, and danger, requiring operators to face uncertainty, make rapid decisions, and adapt quickly. Examples of units operating in such environments include military, tactical police, and counterterrorism units. Operating in these environments demands exceptional physical and mental capabilities, as the risks of injury or harm are significantly amplified. Therefore, monitoring the physiological and psychological stressors within these high-risk environments becomes crucial for the performance and well-being of specialist tactical operators.

While internal and external load monitoring has been extensively studied in traditional sporting environments, research on monitoring strategies for tactical populations, especially specialist groups, remains limited. This dissertation aims to address this gap by achieving three primary objectives: identifying and analysing monitoring methods applicable to specialist tactical populations, reviewing and critique all available literature on monitoring strategies in these populations, and proposing practical recommendations and a framework for effective load monitoring protocols.

The systematic review conducted for this dissertation included studies primarily conducted in training environments, with limited observation in operational settings. Internal variables were measured in 91% of the studies, with heart rate being the primary method used. External variables were reported in 64% of the studies, with accelerometry being the most common tool. The overall findings highlight the significant physiological and psychological demands placed on specialist tactical operators.

Implementing load monitoring protocols in operational environments requires careful consideration of factors such as validity, wear tolerance, technological constraints, and data security. This dissertation provides valuable insights into the monitoring strategies employed in specialist tactical populations, offering practical recommendations for their implementation in operational settings.