Physiological and Medical Considerations of the US Army Physical Readiness Training Program
Abstract
The literature concerning the biomedical factors related to the incidence of overuse injuries which occur during Army Initial Entry Training revealed that overuse injuries in male soldiers reached nearly 26 percent and in females soldiers reached 62 percent. The average amount of time lost for these injuries was 13 days. Underlying strength factors in many military jobs demand exercises to develop upper and/or lower body dynamic, static, and explosive strength. Methods and principles must include diet to match energy requirements, adequate sleep and rest, general conditioning preceding specific training (which fits activity the soldier will be expected to perform), and responsibilities of commanders to establish realistic goals and methods for attaining those goals. Based on review of the literature we anticipate the overuse injuries will be decreased and overall combat fitness will be increased if physical training programs combine work physiology principles with logistic practicality, physical training practices, integrate all components harmoniously, and all participants and training personnel practice the principles accurately/consistently. A prototype controlled study should be conducted to substantiate these recommendations and to determine the specific pace persons should be expected to keep in basic training, the Army Physical Readiness Training Program, and other physical training programs.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 28, 1985
- Accession Number
- ADA157545
Entities
People
- Daryl Zapata
- David A. Stamper
Organizations
- Letterman Army Hospital