Effects of Agility Training on Soldiers in a Warrior Transition Battalion: A Proof of Concept Study

Abstract

Background: Soldiers are returning from military service with physical and/or emotional injuries that impair health and overall physical functioning. To address this limitation these Soldiers are assigned to Warrior Transition Battalions (WTB). Objectives: This proof of concept study evaluated the impact of an individualized Agility Program (AP) on the physical functioning of 11 Soldiers assigned to a WTB at a Midwest military base. Methods: A pre-post design was used that assessed four fitness domains (cardiovascular function, agility, mobility and balance) before and after six weeks of two days per week training. Cardiovascular (CV) function was measured by the 6-Minute Walk test, agility by the Illinois Agility test, mobility with the Up and Go test, and balance by Single Leg Stance test. Modifications for the AP were individualized for each participant based on their medical history and current health status. Results: Results indicated significant improvements in the 6-minute walk test (P = 0.05), Illinois Agility test (P = 0.022), Up and Go test (P = 0.002), and single leg stance test (P = 0.027). Soldiers assigned to a WTB may see physical fitness improvements through participation in an individualized AP. Conclusions: This improvement in CV function, strength, agility and balance has the potential to result in better health and improved overall physical functioning.