Physical Training Activities of East Coast U.S. Navy SEALs.
Abstract
This survey documents the aerobic and strength conditioning programs of East Coast Navy SEALs and evaluates the effectiveness of training programs. 75 East and 102 West Coast SEALs completed a detailed physical training activity questionnaire. Questions documented the type, duration, frequency, and intensity of exercise and the locations/facilities where the SEALs trained. The activities were evaluated according to American College of Sports Medicine guidelines for developing and maintaining aerobic and strength fitness. East and West Coast SEALs train with sufficient volume and intensity to maintain current levels of aerobic fitness. Strength conditioning was also sufficient to maintain muscular strength. The findings indicate that East Coast SEALs spent significantly (p < or = 0.05) more time than West Coast SEALs engaged in aerobic exercises. East Coast SEALs performed calisthenics with greater (p < or = 0.05) frequency, intensity, and duration than West Coast SEALs, and ran the obstacle course with significantly greater frequency and intensity. The effectiveness of current training programs should be evaluated to ensure SEALs' ability to meet the most physically demanding tasks they may be required to perform. Additionally, physical training programs for SEALs must be evaluated to ensure they avoid detraining under conditions where appropriate equipment and training opportunities are limited (e.g., shipboard and submarine deployments). -BKA
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Dec 01, 1994
- Accession Number
- ADA291290
Entities
People
- H. W. Goforth Jr.
- M. S. Nelson
- W. .k. Prusaczyk
Organizations
- Naval Health Research Center