Medical and Environmental Fitness

Abstract

ABSTRACTTotal force fitness is an emerging concept defined as a state in which the individual, family, and organization can sustain optimal well-being and performance under all conditions. Medical and environmental fitness are two of the component domains in the total force fitness framework. These domains have purposely been combined as they are inextricably intertwined: a warfighter must be able to function, free of any anticipated medical condition that could compromise either individual or unit effectiveness, while potentially confronting multiple environmental challenges. Medical fitness, best described as a state of general mental and physical well-being, is determined by medical metrics. Environmental fitness is defined as the ability to perform mission-specific duties in any environment and withstand the multiple stressors of deployment and war. This article defines the domains of medical and environmental fitness, describes the benefits of a medically and environmentally fit force, and identifies...