Physical Training in the Army

Army physical training helps soldiers maintain combat readiness.

Physical training in the Army is meant to be a regular part of a soldier's life. In fact, the performance of it is a scheduled part of almost every Army unit's mission requirements. Soldiers are expected to be in good physical shape for a variety of reasons. One of the most important is the fact that they may be called upon to perform combat roles at any time. Being physically fit helps in that regard.

Basic Training

Running is a part of every soldier's life.

Physical training for a soldier starts as soon as she enters initial training. During this phase, it's often done in group settings. At this point, it's aimed at getting a soldier to the point where he can meet minimum Army physical fitness standards. To accomplish this, regular physical training (PT) sessions take place throughout basic training. Running is an integral component during this phase. Also, much work is done to develop upper body strength.

Fitness Testing

Soldiers must pass regular physical fitness testing.

The new soldier will take what's called a diagnostic APFT at the beginning of training. APFT stands for Army Physical Fitness Test. Push-ups, sit-ups and a 2-mile run constitute the test. If passed, regular physical training continues to be part of the new soldier's day. If failed, additional fitness work is scheduled for the soldier. The APFT is given once again to all soldiers near training's end. To graduate, it has to be passed.

Considerations

The Army requires regular physical training to help soldiers avoid obesity.

Because the Army is a professional military organization, it also requires that its military members look sharp in uniform. Overweight or obese members wouldn't be able to do that. Therefore, height and weight standards have to be maintained. This is another reason why physical training stays a part of every soldier's life. The soldier is expected to engage in it with her unit and also on her own. To gauge fitness, the APFT is administered regularly.

Types of Fitness

The Army encourages off-duty weight training.

In general, Army physical fitness is intended to improve two different aspects of overall fitness. One is cardiovascular and the other is strength. A variety of aerobic activities are performed to strengthen the first. An equally large variety of anaerobic activity helps to grow the second. The Army improves cardiovascular fitness through activities like running and total body calisthenics. It builds strength through classic exercises like push-ups, sit-ups and pull-ups. Off-duty weight training is encouraged.

Significance

Many Army installations feature fitness centers to aid in physical training.

Physical training in the Army is regarded as vital to the overall performance of that military service. It's considered so important, soldiers are encouraged to perform it even on their own time. In fact, almost no soldier could meet minimum APFT standards without exercising regularly on her own time. The Army offers a number of tools to help in this regard. These include such things as on-installation fitness centers with professional fitness trainers on staff.

References

• Military: Army Physical Fitness Program
• US Army: Hooah 4 Health Program Overview
• Army NCO School: Remedial Physical Training

Resources

• US Army: Physical Fitness Training Manual