Program Outcomes and Soldier Perceptions of the Army Pregnancy and Postpartum Physical Training (P3T) Program
Abstract
The Army Pregnancy Postpartum Physical Training (P3T) Program is a mandatory exercise and education program that assists Army Soldiers in preventing excess antepartum weight gain, maintaining fitness during pregnancy, and meeting fitness and body composition standards postpartum. This study examined the relationship between program outcomes and perceptions of command support, program helpfulness, social support, and morale for 305 participants at Fort Campbell, Kentucky. Most participants perceived command support for Soldier participation. However, less than half of participants reported meeting fitness and body composition standards by 180 days postpartum and few believed P3T helped participants meet standards. Participants endorsed a number of positive social and retention-related program attributes, suggesting that P3T potentially improves confidence and morale, thereby improving retention of highly qualified female Soldiers who also choose to become parents. This evaluation provides insight into factors that may improve retention of highly qualified Soldiers, as well as considerations for future evaluations.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jul 24, 2014
- Accession Number
- AD1012847
Entities
People
- Sarah J. Mccreight
Organizations
- Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences