One of the most common concerns among my aerobatic flight training students is how they will handle the intense G-forces experienced during maneuvers. The truth is, you won’t truly know until you try. However, there are several ways to mitigate the effects of both positive and negative G-loads to enhance performance and safety.
Understanding G-Forces in Aerobatic Flight Training
G-loads refer to the gravitational forces acting on the body during flight. While on the ground, we experience a standard one positive G, dictated by Earth’s gravity. In space, astronauts experience zero G, which is why they float. For most people, the closest sensation to zero G occurs when cresting a roller coaster hill and feeling their stomach “float.”
New pilots in aerobatic flight training get their first taste of G-loads when practicing steep turns. At a 60-degree bank, most aircraft pull about two Gs, which is manageable for most people. However, a standard loop exerts around four positive Gs, while an outside loop applies four negative Gs—introducing significant physical strain.
Effects of G-Forces on the Human Body
When pulling positive Gs, blood is forced away from the brain and into the legs, potentially leading to G-induced Loss of Consciousness (G-LOC). Fighter pilots use G-suits that automatically inflate to push blood back to the brain, preventing tunnel vision, greyouts, and blackouts. Interestingly, the Blue Angels do not wear G-suits due to their rapid transitions between positive and negative Gs, which would interfere with their performance.
Unlike military pilots, aerobatic pilots flying aircraft like the Extra or Pitts do not have G-suits. Instead, they rely on physical conditioning and specialized techniques to manage G-loads. For example, shorter pilots have an advantage as their blood has a shorter distance to travel. A legendary WWII ace, who had no legs, was nearly immune to G-LOC since his blood couldn’t pool in his lower extremities.
Training Your Body to Handle G-Forces
For those of us with intact legs, strength training—especially core exercises—can improve G-tolerance. Many believe flying on an empty stomach prevents nausea, but in reality, maintaining stable blood sugar and proper hydration is key. During aerobatic flight training and competitions, pilots consume carb-rich snacks to maintain energy levels. Hydration is equally important; dehydration can cause headaches and worsen G-force effects. Products like Liquid IV and Gatorade help replenish electrolytes and maintain hydration.
Negative Gs, experienced during push maneuvers, force blood into the brain, sometimes causing small blood vessel ruptures. Unlike positive Gs, there is no way to push blood out of the brain, so relaxation is crucial. Fortunately, push maneuvers are typically introduced only at advanced training levels, giving pilots time to build tolerance.
Managing Motion Sickness in Aerobatic Flight Training
Many prospective students worry about motion sickness. While I’ve personally never experienced it, I’ve seen it manifest in various ways—some pilots feel nauseous, while others become unusually drowsy. To combat motion sickness, pilots can use non-drowsy Dramamine, patches, or even Amazon wristbands that send mild electric pulses to interrupt nausea signals.
If you initially struggle with G-loads, don’t be discouraged! Even top aerobatic pilots like National Champion Cecilia Aragon once experienced sickness after just two maneuvers. With persistence and the right techniques, anyone can build G-force tolerance over time.
Conclusion
Aerobatic flight training isn’t just about skill—it’s also about conditioning your body to withstand the intense forces of advanced maneuvers. By focusing on core strength, hydration, nutrition, and gradual exposure to G-loads, anyone can develop the tolerance needed to excel in aerobatics. Whether you’re training for competition or simply looking to push your limits, mastering G-forces is an essential step in your journey to becoming a skilled aerobatic pilot.
Scott Gorski is a former Navy crew member who rekindled his passion for flying after 20 years and now teaches various forms of flight training, including tailwheel, Roll/Upset, and competition acrobatics. He competes regularly and is part of the IAC chapter 67.