Which physical technique is commonly used during the Anti-G straining maneuver?

In the context of the Anti-G straining maneuver, holding your breath while tightening your abdominal muscles is the primary physical technique employed to counteract the effects of increased G-forces during flight. When an aircraft accelerates or experiences rapid changes in direction, pilots are subjected to elevated gravitational forces that can lead to g-induced loss of consciousness (GLOC).

By holding the breath, pilots increase intra-abdominal and intrathoracic pressure. This action serves to maintain blood flow to the brain, which is crucial during high-G maneuvers. Simultaneously tightening the abdominal muscles further aids in compressing the contents of the abdomen and thorax, promoting blood circulation back to the heart and reducing the risk of blood pooling in the lower body.

This technique is essential for pilots, especially in high-performance aircraft, to remain conscious and in control during maneuvers that exert significant forces on the body. Other techniques listed may not effectively support the physiological response required to manage the consequences of increased G-forces as effectively as the combination of breath-holding and muscle tension does.