Physical Training for the Modern Battlefield: Are we Tough Enough?
Abstract
The individual soldier's physical and mental preparation for battle are arguably two of the most important factors considered when deciding whether a force onset of fatigue and contributes to enhanced mental resolve of the force when committed. Does the centrally controlled, aerobic intensive, test oriented physical training program currently used by our army give us the best methods for preparing our soldiers for the eventuality of combat? This paper shows the implications of what is possible: it analyzes some of the physiological and psychological demands of combat, it investigates historical examples of commanders who, with a vision of how they would flight, properly prepared their units for the physical aspects of battles, and it outlines the current methods used by the USSR and the US in preparing their soldiers for the stresses of war. The conclusions address changes which must be made in our physical training programs if we are to meet the demands imposed by Airland Battle Doctrine-- training which is stressful, contingency related, and directed to readiness. Keywords: Physical fitness, Physical readiness, Fear, Fatigue, Combat readiness, Unit contingency training.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Nov 23, 1987
- Accession Number
- ADA190834
Entities
People
- Mark P. Hertling
Organizations
- United States Army Command and General Staff College