Combat Fitness a Concept Vital to National Defense
Abstract
Current combat operations have uncovered some disturbing issues regarding ground combatants' mental and physical ability to withstand the extreme demands of continuous combat operations in harsh environments, such as those found in Iraq and Afghanistan. These issues are creating significant problems for the U.S. military`s ability to sustain a healthy force that is able to handle the country`s most difficult tasks. This research paper takes a critical look at the Service physical fitness programs to determine if the fitness training currently being conducted is sufficient to sustain ground combatants throughout their military careers. In today`s environment of tight budgets, reduced manpower, and rising health care costs, it is imperative that the Department of Defense (DoD) take the appropriate actions to prepare and maintain its most vital weapon system: the Service member. The DoD must embrace the most modern physical fitness training systems, techniques, technology, and testing to better train and prepare ground combatants for the rigors of combat. A revised training system should improve battlefield effectiveness and prolong individual operational longevity, while minimizing the numbers of short- and long-term injuries currently plaguing the force.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 18, 2010
- Accession Number
- ADA530226
Entities
People
- Christopher P. Larkin
Organizations
- National Defense University