Agility and balance are useful tests to add to straight-line running in assessing fitness of Infantry Commander trainees

Abstract

Background: Military training activities aim to establish a consistent level of fitness in soldiers and raise all to full combat standard. Physical fitness tests typically involve a combination of aerobic, agility and muscular strength activities. Various aspects of fitness have been shown to be predictive of reduced injury risk within this population. This study assessed the potential for tests of leg function to add value to the fitness testing protocol in the Infantry Commanders Course (IC Course) of the Israeli Defence Force (IDF).