Effects of Pregnancy on the Army Physical Fitness Test
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to determine the actual and perceived amount of time needed for the postpartum soldier to return to pre-pregnancy fitness condition as evidenced by APFT scores before and after pregnancy. There were three questions addressed in this study. First, what effect does pregnancy have on physical fitness levels as demonstrated by APFT scores? Second, how long does it take the postpartum soldier to return to pre-pregnancy fitness condition as measured by six month and one year postpartum APFT scores? And third, how long do the soldiers think it will take for them to return to pre-pregnancy fitness condition and perform as they previously did on the APFT? The findings from this study have implications for the education of healthcare providers, patients, and the Army regarding the effects pregnancy and delivery have on the human body, as well as enlightening them on the actual and perceived time needed for postpartum recovery and return to pre-pregnancy fitness condition. Using a quantitative descriptive design, data was gathered using a questionnaire asking demographic data, pregnancy information, exercise routines and beliefs, and APFT scores. Results revealed that complications, weight gain, and postpartum exercise practices had statistically significant effects on postpartum APFT scores. There were statistically significant differences between the pre-pregnancy and first post-pregnancy APFT scores as well. The percentage of women able to score equal or better on the first postpartum APFT compared to the pre-pregnancy APFT was 19%. The percentage of women able to do so on the second APFT was 31%. Seventeen percent of participants believed six months was enough time to return to pre-pregnancy physical condition. The significant differences in scores and personal beliefs stated by the soldiers may suggest that the current pregnancy profil
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 01, 2003
- Accession Number
- ADA421141
Entities
People
- Stacy E. Usher
Organizations
- Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences