A soldier's level of physical fitness has a direct impact on his combat
readiness. The many battles in which American troops have fought
underscore the important role physical fitness plays on the battlefield.
The renewed nationwide interest in fitness has been accompanied by many
research studies on the effects of regular participation in sound
physical fitness programs. The overwhelming conclusion is that such
programs enhance a person's quality of life, improve productivity, and
bring about positive physical and mental changes. Not only are
physically fit soldiers essential to the Army, they are also more likely
to lead enjoyable, productive lives. This manual is primarily concerned
with issues relating directly to the development and maintenance of the
five components of physical fitness: Ø Cardiorespiratory (CR)
endurance--the efficiency with which the body delivers oxygen and
nutrients needed for muscular activity and transports waste products
from the cells. Ø Muscular strength--the greatest amount of force a
muscle or muscle group can exert in a single effort. Ø Muscular
endurance--the ability of a muscle or muscle group to perform repeated
movements with a submaximal force for extended periods of time. Ø
Flexibility--the ability to move the joints (for example, elbow or knee)
or any group of joints through an entire, normal range of motion. Ø Body
composition--the amount of body fat a soldier has in comparison to his
total body mass. U.S. ARMY FITNESS TRAINING HANDBOOK is an outstanding
resource for anyone interested in improving mental health, physical
health, and general well-being
