A systematic review identifying fitness metrics indicative of simulated astronaut extravehicular activity task performance

To prepare for safe and successful completion of surface operations during future missions to the Moon and Mars, understanding the relationships between fitness and simulated extravehicular activity (EVA) performance is imperative. This systematic review included twelve studies [366 astronaut and non-astronaut subjects (206 male, 154 female, 6 unspecified)] that reported cardiorespiratory or muscular fitness data in relation to EVA task performance and/or simulated EVA intensity outcomes. Databases searched (through May 2025) included PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, and NASA Technical Reports Server. The AXIS critical appraisal tool for cross-sectional studies assessed study quality. Results were synthesized in tabular and graphical formats. Thirty-eight fitness metrics were identified, with 8 cardiovascular and 12 muscular metrics demonstrating associations with simulated EVA task performance outcomes. This systematic review identified fitness metrics of relevance for future exploration EVAs and provides important considerations for exercise countermeasure and monitoring capability development. Funded by NASA Human Research Program.