Fitness Test Research Articles

The effect of the carbohydrate loading method on improving the performance of amateur runners

Many runners experience decreased performance and premature fatigue, influenced by various factors, including nutrition. The results of the observations show a high level of fatigue and a need for more performance among runners who are members of the running community in Makassar, especially beginner runners. This research aims to examine the effect of the carbohydrate loading method on improving the performance of the amateur runner community in Makassar. This research used an experimental design involving 60 runners from the amateur runner community in Makassar. Subjects were divided into two groups: an experimental group that applied the carbohydrate loading method and a control group that followed a normal eating pattern. Training to measure runner performance The multistage fitness test (MFT) is the instrument to measure runner performance. Data analysis techniques with t-test (paired sample t-test) to see differences using spss version 20. Data analysis showed significant improvements in performance improvement with the carbohydrate application method. The average performance value increased in the experimental group to 46.18 compared to the control group to 37.21. This increase can be seen from the calculated t-value of 13.75. So, the carbohydrate loading method influences performance. The carbohydrate loading method is an effective strategy for improving the performance of running athletes, especially in the Makassar runner community. With proper application, this method can help runners achieve peak performance, reduce fatigue, and increase efficiency during training and competition.

The Influence of Physical Fitness, Motor Skills, and Learning Motivation on Cartwheel Skills in Physical Education

Background Problems: During the observation, many students were unable to perform cartwheel skills. This research is important so that students can pass the minimum completion criteria so that their physical education learning outcomes are not low. Research Objectives: This study aims to determine the factors that influence the skills of cartwheel. Methods: This type of research is quantitative. The population amounted to 392 students in class XI. The technique used to obtain the sample is simple random sampling using the slovin formula with an error rate of 10%. Based on this, the sample amounted to 80 students. The physical fitness test instrument used the Indonesian Student Fitness Test, the motor ability test instrument used the Barrow Motor Ability Test, the learning motivation data was collected using a questionnaire, and the cartwheel skill data used an observation sheet which contained the criteria for implementing the cartwheel movement. Path analysis was used as a data analysis technique. Finding/Results: The results of the study consist of: 1. Physical fitness and motor skills have a significant influence on cartwheel skills. 2. Learning motivation has no significant effect directly on cartwheel skills. 3. Physical fitness indirectly through learning motivation has no significant effect on cartwheel skills. 4. Motor ability indirectly through learning motivation has no significant effect on cartwheel skills. Conclusion: Physical fitness and motor skills have a significant influence on cartwheel skills. Students need to do it outside of PJOK class hours. For Further Researchers Conduct research on other gymnastic movements.

Association Between Government Expenditures, Inflation and Interest Rate in Nigeria

The study analysed the relationship between government expenditure, economic growth, inflation and interest rate in Nigeria. The high inflation and interest rate with high government expenditure has been a problem for the Nigerian economy. Secondary data from 1986 to 2022 were collated from the Central Bank of Nigeria Statistical Bulletin and analyzed using multiple regression analysis. The results showed a positive relationship between inflation rate, government expenditure and Gross Domestic Product (GDP). This means that as inflation and government expenditure increased, real gross domestic product (GDP) would increase while there existed an inverse relationship between interest rate and gross domestic product (GDP), which implies that as interest rate increased, GDP would decrease. The test for the model fitness using adjusted R2 indicated the predictor values accounted for 95 per cent variations in the dependent variable (GDP). The study therefore recommended that monetary and fiscal authorities should regulate government expenditure by targeting a contractionary fiscal policy which decreases the amount of government expenditure in a bid to tackle inflationary trends. The government should aim at inflation targeting through a single-digit interest rate which could encourage the private sector to accumulate funds to be used to augment government efforts in regulating stability in the economy. Besides, even though the structural inflation facing the country did not have a very significant effect on the domestic economy concerning government expenditure and its impact on GDP, this should be resolved by dismantling all rigidities and bottlenecks such as the war against insecurities and herdsmen that have been distorting farming and agricultural output in Nigeria of late.

The influence of physical fitness on self-confidence and its impact on physical education academic achievement. A study on grade V school students

Background and Study Aim. Much of the crisis in the current education system is caused by students’ low physical fitness and self-confidence. This study aims to determine the effect of physical fitness on self-confidence and its impact on the academic achievement of Physical Education of Grade V Primary School students. Materials and Methods. This research is correlational. The subjects were Class V students in elementary schools, with a sample size of 115 students (66 males, 49 females, ages 10-12) selected through random sampling. Academic achievement was measured through Physical Education report card scores, physical fitness through the Indonesian Student Fitness Test (TKSI), and physical self-confidence through a self-confidence scale. Data analysis was performed using regression techniques via SPSS 21. Results. Physical fitness positively affected self-confidence (r = 0.259, p = 0.005 < 0.05) and Physical Education academic achievement (r = 0.513, p = 0.000 < 0.05). Self-confidence also significantly impacted Physical Education academic achievement (r = 0.519, p = 0.000 < 0.05). Conclusion. Better physical fitness enhances students’ self-confidence and positively influences their academic performance in Physical Education.

Anthropometric Fit Test Methods: Three Case Studies

There is not a universally accepted fit test procedure because test protocols need to be customized for specific products or research questions. A fit test protocol can vary significantly based on the product tested, but often includes these steps: define fit criteria, select anthropometric dimensions of interest, perform testing, collect quantitative and qualitative feedback, identify design recommendations, and develop or refine a sizing chart. To illustrate general approaches to human fit testing, case studies of fit tests are described for three different product types: a multi-layered protective clothing ensemble, a therapeutic airway clearance vest, and a patient transfer sling.

Development of Digital-Based Bleep Test Tools

In the world of sports, technology has become essential to improve the accuracy and efficiency of measuring athletes' fitness. The bleep test, a popular method for measuring cardiovascular endurance, often suffers from accuracy issues when performed manually. The purpose of this research is to develop a digital-based bleep test tool. In the implementation of the bleep test, there is currently no tool that ensures that bleep test participants pass the specified distance, and recording is still manual. This bleep test aid uses an ultrasonic sensor to detect test participants during the bleep test, and the data from this sensor will be sent to a PC or laptop to display the test results. This research method uses the R&D research method with the Borg and Gall research model. The result of this research is a sensor tool to help record the implementation of the bleep test digitally. The results of the operational field test of this tool are able to detect test participants in the implementation of the bleep test and send data on the level, rotation, and Vo2max of participants in the implementation of the bleep test.

Hubungan Asupan Zat Gizi Makro dan Status Gizi dengan Kebugaran Jasmani Atlet Cabang Olahraga Permainan

Background: Physical fitness is a person ability to carry out physical activities. Physical fitness is very important for athletes to improve athlete performance and athlete quality. Sports with aerobic and anaerobic systems require cardiovascular endurance (VO2 max). Physical fitness will run well with adequate energy and macronutrient intake. Objectives: This study aims to determine the relationship between energy intake, macronutrients and nutritional status with the physical fitness (VO2 Max) of athletes in gaming sports at BPPLOP Central Java. Method: The research was conducted using analytical observation with a cross sectional design. The research sample was 47 people using a total sampling technique. Data on athletesmacronutrient intake uses the 3x24 hour food recall method, physical fitness (VO2 max) measurements use the bleep test. Data analysis was carried out using the Pearson Correlation Test. Results: The results of the Pearson correlation test showed that there was no significant relationship between energy intake (p=0.921 R=-0.015), protein (p=0.276 R=-0.162), fat (p=0.778 R=-0.042), and carbohydrates (p= 0.923 R=0.015) on athletes' physical fitness (VO2 max). Conclusion: It was found that there was a significant relationship between nutritional status (p=0.021 R=-0.335) and physical fitness (VO2 max) of game sports athletes at BPPLOP CentralJava.Key words : carbohydrates, energy, nutritional status, physical fitness (VO2 Max), protein

Distribution of Rain Intensity: Daily Maximum Rainfall Data in The Province of South Sumatera and West Sumatera

The high intensity of rain in May 2024 caused flooding in the Sumatra region, especially Padang City and Palembang City. The region of West Sumatra is also known as the ethalae of disasters with frequent earthquakes, floods, and landslides. In Indonesia, many frequency analyses are conducted using the Gumbel distribution without testing data and clear hydrological reasons. It is feared that this method is considered as a routine way, thus causing the risk of unwanted deviations, resulting in many disasters and errors in the planning of water buildings. This research aims to determine and know the type of distribution that is representative for the maximum daily rainfall frequency in West Sumatra and South Sumatra Provinces as a reference for development and disaster mitigation in the region. The research location is in West Sumatra and South Sumatra. The data used for this study were taken from daily maximum rainfall data from rain stations for 35 to 40 years from 24 rain stations in West Sumatra Province, and 16 rain stations for South Sumatra region. This type of research is development research with the 4D development model (Define, Design, Develop, Disseminate). The development method consists of four different phases: Initial Investigation, Design, Realisation and Development. The data of each station was then organised into two types of data series, namely the annual maximum data series and the annual minimum data series. The results of this data series test are expected to follow one or more types of distributions commonly used in Hydrology and Drainage. The distribution results obtained for the South Sumatra region are Gama-III and LP-III, while for the West Sumatra region the distribution types are Gama-III, LP-III Normal Log and Gembel. The conclusion obtained is that West Sumatra does not have only one type of distribution. For the type of test using the SPSS.22 application, the results obtained are goodness of fit test, parametric test, Chi-Square test, Kolmogorov Smirnov test and Anderson-Darling test and Histrogram (visual) method.

Why are we doing this Staff? Justification and implications of aerobic fitness testing in the military.

Physical fitness is a key tenet of military organisations worldwide. Specifically, many consider aerobic fitness (AF) an essential physical attribute for ensuring optimal military performance and readiness. However, the intricate relationship between AF and various facets of military job performance necessitates comprehensive review to ascertain the appropriateness and effectiveness of its assessment. This narrative review aims to describe the relationship between AF and factors influencing individual military performance and readiness, and explores the implications of the enforcement of in-service, generic AF test standards in military populations. Databases (PubMed and Google Scholar) were searched for all relevant published peer-reviewed literature as at August 2023. Inconsistent associations were found between AF and outcomes influencing individual military performance (physical capabilities, cognitive capabilities, presenteeism and productivity, resilience, and technical/tactical capabilities) and readiness (mental health and wellbeing and physical health). Consequently, the level of AF needed for acceptable or optimal military performance remains uncertain. AF is a cornerstone of health and performance, yet linking generic AF test standards to job performance is complex, with multiple factors interacting to influence outcomes. From existing literatures, there does not appear to be a specific level of AF at, and/or above, which acceptable military performance is achieved. As such, the enforcement of and emphasis on in-service, pass/fail, generic AF test standards in military populations is questionable and requires thoughtful re-evaluation. Role/task-specific AF should be assessed through evidence-based PES and the use of generic AF tests limited to the monitoring and benchmarking of health-related fitness.

Analysis of the relationship between body imbalance characteristics and physical ability in air force cadets: physical function and gravity acceleration resistance

Air Force pilots and some athletes (e.g., in sledding sports) are frequently exposed to high G-forces. High-intensity physical activity is essential to withstand gravitational acceleration, and morphological symmetry and functional movement are directly related to injury in those who perform these activities. However, the relationship between G-endurance and physical imbalance and the effect on physical performance is poorly understood. This study aimed to analyze the physical performance of those exposed to a high load of G-tolerance and who performed high-intensity physical activity. A total of 363 male cadets from the Korean Air Force Academy underwent functional movement screen tests, anatomical structure measurements, G-tests (fourth grade), and body composition and physical fitness tests. Participants were classified into the G-test-pass and -fail groups depending on the G-test results. The pass group showed significantly different bilateral imbalance in active straight leg raises (p < 0.05), while the fail group showed a significant difference in deep squats (p < 0.05), shoulder mobility (p < 0.01), rotary stability (p < 0.05), and functional leg length (p < 0.05). Leg length was significantly correlated with the hurdle step (p < 0.01), inline lunge (p < 0.01), and active straight leg raise (p < 0.01). Functional leg lengths on both sides and structural leg lengths were also significantly correlated (p < 0.01). High body balance positively affects gravitational acceleration and exercise performance. Therefore, functional movement and physical imbalance affect performance in pilots affected by gravitational acceleration. This study can also be applied to strengthen the performance of winter sports athletes affected by gravitational acceleration.

Effects of different parenting styles on the physical health of Chinese university students.

Annual declines in university students' physical health have an impact on social stability and the nation's long-term growth. Parenting style, which is crucial to a child's growth and development, may have a big influence on physical health. This study delves into the effects of different parenting styles on the physical fitness of Chinese college students under gender differences. Through random allocation and stratified sampling methods, this study comprehensively investigated 3,151 undergraduate students (male = 1,365; female = 1786) with an average age of 18.44 years (SD = 1.46), from a university in Jiangsu Province, China. Parenting styles of college students were evaluated by the Parental Bonding Instrument (PBI). Physical fitness tests were based on the Chinese National Student Physical Fitness Standards including body mass index, lung capacity, standing-long-jump, bent-leg-sit-up, seated forward bend, pull-ups, 50 m sprint, and 800/1,000 m run. Further investigations focused on the relationship between parenting styles and physical health by statistical analysis methods such as Pearson correlation and multiple linear regression. Significant differences were identified in gender, family members, and academic majors in most of the correlation indicators between different parenting styles and physical health among college students. Further analysis showed that the parenting styles of democratic and authoritative mothers and democratic fathers were more conducive to the promotion of physical health among female university students. The combination of a democratic fathering style and a permissive mothering style is considered an ideal parenting model for male students. This study confirmed that different parenting styles have a significant impact on the physical health of college students. Positive parenting styles may improve physical health, while negative ones are likely to have adverse effects, especially among female students. It is also important to notice differentiated parenting styles with respect to male and female university students. Therefore, more attention should be raised on parenting styles to enhance physical health of the student population.

Digitizing success: Leveraging digital human resource practices for transformative productivity in Chinese SMEs

Background& Purpose: In the rapidly evolving digital landscape, digital human resource (HR) practices in small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) have become a vital success factor. This study adopts the resource-based view of the firm to explore the complicated relationships among digital HR practices, digital transformation, innovative work behavior, disruptive innovation, and work productivity in the context of Chinese SMEs. MethodsThis study provides fundamental insights by drawing data from Jiangsu province, China. Data from 339 managerial staff members were collected and analyzed using SmartPLS (4.0) with a partial least squares structural equation model (PLS-SEM). Several measures, model fit, and hypothesis tests were conducted. FindingsDigital HR practices significantly affect digital transformation, innovative work behavior, and productivity. Furthermore, digital transformation is a powerful driver that positively influences innovative work behavior and productivity in SMEs. Interestingly, innovative work behavior positively influenced work productivity, exemplifying the vital role of inspired thinking and problem-solving abilities. This study also investigates the moderating role of disruptive innovation, highlighting its influence on the association between digital HR practices and digital transformation. However, disruptive innovation does not significantly moderate the association between digital transformation and innovative work behavior, suggesting fascinating nuances for SMEs. Conclusion/valueThis research extends our understanding of the interaction between digitalization, HR, and innovation, and proposes practical implications for SMEs aiming to harness the transformative potential of digitization. Several theoretical and practical implications are developed for future studies on related SMEs.

A novel index combining fecal immunochemical test, DNA test, and age improves detection of advanced colorectal adenoma.

Although the fecal immunochemical test for hemoglobin (FIT) is a widely used screening test for colorectal cancer, it is not sensitive enough to detect advanced colorectal adenoma. To address this issue, we performed this study to investigate whether combining the FIT and fecal DNA testing of methylated somatostatin (SST) could improve diagnostic performance for advanced colorectal adenoma. We collected feces from 79 healthy subjects with negative results on colonoscopy, 43 patients with non-advanced colorectal adenoma, 117 patients with advanced colorectal adenoma, and 126 patients with colorectal cancer. After fecal DNA was incubated with methylation-sensitive restriction enzymes, SST methylation levels were measured by droplet digital PCR. Using logistic multivariate analysis, we established a prediction formula for detecting colorectal neoplasia and named it the FAMS (FIT, age, methylated SST) index. The diagnostic performance of a single use of FIT for advanced colorectal adenoma showed a sensitivity of 29.1% (34/117) and specificity of 89.3% (109/122). In contrast, the FAMS index showed a sensitivity of 56.4% (66/117) at a similar specificity point of 91.0% (111/122). Furthermore, even at the higher specificity point of 94.3% (115/122), the sensitivity was still higher than that of FIT, reaching 42.7% (50/117). As the FAMS index showed better diagnostic performance for advanced colorectal adenoma than a single use of FIT, the FAMS index could be a promising tool for detecting advanced colorectal adenoma.

Translation, validity and reliability of the fall risk scale for older adults

IntroductionFalls in older adults are a common and serious threat to health and functional independence. It can cause psychological distress, inability to participate in activities of daily living, brain injury, fractures, and even death. The aim was to analyze the psychometric properties of the self-assessed fall risk scale (FRS) that measures the risk of falls in older adults in a central region of Chile, as well as to verify the concurrent validity against functional fitness tests.Materials and methodsA descriptive cross-sectional study was carried out in 222 older adults (OA) [34 males and 188 females] with an age range of 65 to 85 years. The 13-item self-perceived fall risk scale (FRS) was validated. Anthropometric measures (weight, height and waist circumference) were assessed. Five functional fitness tests were measured (right and left hand grip strength, biceps curl, up-and-go, agility and 6-minute walk test). Validation was performed by construct validation [(exploratory factor analysis (EFA) and confirmatory factor analysis (CFA)] and concurrent validity.ResultsThe EFA revealed 4 factors in the FRS scale [1: fear of falling (variance 27.1%), 2: use of assistive devices (variance 10.6%), 3: loss of sensation (variance 9.3%), and 4: limited mobility (variance 8.3%)]. Factor loadings ranged from ∼ 0.50 to 0.83 across the 4 components. The Kaiser-Meyer Olkin sample adequacy test (KMO) reflected adequate adequacy (KMO = 0.79, chi-square (X2) = 498.806, gl = 78, p = 0.00). The CFA showed a satisfactory final fit [chi-square (X2) = 126.748, Root mean squared error of approximation (RMSEA) = 0.042, Tucker-Lewis Index (TLI) = 0.946, Comparative fit index (CFI) = 0.935 y Normed fit index (NFI) = 0.90. The relationships between the FRS scale and functional fitness tests (right and left hand grip strength, biceps curl, up-and-go, agility and 6-minute walk test) ranged from low to moderate (r= -0.23 to 0.41).ConclusionThe FRS scale showed acceptable validity and reliability in older adults in central region of Chile. It is expected that this scale will be useful for assessing fall risk in clinical and epidemiological settings in the aging Chilean population.

Effect of Fartlek and Interval Training on the Muscular Strength and Strength Endurance of Football Player's Performance

The sixty district level football players were selected randomly as subjects from different schools of Vadodara, Gujarat. The groups were from 16 to 19 years of age; these subjects were further divided into three groups of 20 players each, and the groups were called Experimental group I=20, Experimental group II=20 and the Control group=20. The purpose of the study was to know the effects of the study on the development of district level football players of schools. METHODS: - Subjects were tested under pre-test on Aapher youth fitness test and collected pre-test data, Later both experimental group were given specific training i:e Experimental group I – Fartlek training, Experimental group II- Interval training and Control Group- No training, once the trainings was completed the subjects were tested again under post-test and the data was collected for analysis and interpretation. FINDINGS:- 1. The calculated F-value of adjusted mean was 68.89, which was significant at 0.05 levels. 2. The calculated F-value of adjusted mean was 369.52, which was significant at 0.05 levels as it was greater than tabulated F value at 0.05 levels. CONCLUSION:-1. After analyzing ANCOVA and LSD post hoc test for muscular strength it was observed that there was a significant improvement in the muscular strength of the subject of both the Experimental groups i.e. fartlek training group and interval training group comparatively control group. 2. After analyzing ANCOVA and LSD post hoc test for strength endurance it was observed that there was a significant improvement in the strength endurance of the subject of both the Experimental groups i.e. fartlek training group and interval training group comparatively control group.

A physical demands analysis to identify and delineate critical physical tasks for physically demanding US air force occupations.

Military physical fitness tests and standards often lack a scientific basis. Contrary to this traditional-historical precedent, US Air Force researchers use a "Two-Tier" health (Tier 1) and performance (Tier 2) approach to develop evidence-based criterion physical fitness tests, standards, and training. This study specifically and only addresses a physical demands analysis, the first step in a six-step process to develop Tier 2 occupationally specific, operationally relevant physical fitness tests and standards, and training guidance. This study conducted a physical demands analysis to identify and delineate occupationally specific, operationally relevant critical physical tasks for eight physically demanding US Air Force occupational specialties. A comprehensive five part physical demands analysis reviewed duty tasks, conducted focus groups, assessed incumbents, observed operational tasks, and interviewed senior leaders to detail critical physical tasks. The physical demands analysis delineated duty tasks to critical physical tasks for Special Tactics (556 to 40), Pararescue (981 to 50), Tactical Air Control (415 to 44), Special Operations Weather (586 to 50), Explosive Ordnance Disposal (1107 to 39), Security Forces (1286 to 25), Fire and Emergency Services (802 to 39), and Survival, Evasion, Resistance, and Escape (1099 to 25). The study approach proved efficacious for conducting a thorough physical demands analysis to identify and delineate occupationally specific, operationally relevant critical physical tasks for eight US Air Force physically demanding occupations. Critical physical tasks provide basis for the next overall research process step, developing physical task simulations to link to predictive physical fitness tests and training guidance.

Measurement and evaluation of personal attenuation rating before and after the training of the noise-exposed workers wearing foam earplugs

Objective: To measure and compare the difference of personal attenuation rating (PAR) of the workers wearing foam earplugs before and after the training, and to evaluate the effect of ear protector wearing training on the noise protection. Methods: In February 2023, 94 workers exposed to noise in a machinery manufacturing factory were selected as subjects. The production noise in the workplace was measured and subjects were trained to wear earplugs. The PAR values of wearing 3M 1110 foam test earplugs were measured and recorded before and after the training by using the fit testing of hearing protection device. The differences between the actual PAR values with nominal values and the noise attenuation values in related standards were compared, and the protective effect of hearing protection device before and after training was evaluated. Results: The average age of the subjects was (36.76±11.48) years old, the average length of service was (16.34±11.64) years, and the average exposure time to noise was (15.67±11.64) years. The noise detection results of the subjects' posts were ranged from 80.1 to 94.3 dB (A). The results of subjects wore 3M 1110 foam test earplugs for fit testing showed that the binaural PAR value after training was (19.3±6.4) dB (A), which was significantly higher than that before training (11.1±7.4) dB (A) (t=13.31, P<0.001). After training, 11 people (11.70%) could reach the corrected noise reduction value (NRR value), 26 people (27.66%) could reach the standard of single noise reduction value (SNR value) ×0.6, and 84 people (89.36%) could reach the standard of (NRR-7) /2. The under protection rate of hearing protectors after training (7.45%) was significantly lower than that before training (45.74%), and the difference of different protection levels before and after training was statistically significant (χ(2)=40.83, P<0.001) . Conclusion: It is suggested that enterprises should use the fit testing instead of nominal value estimation to evaluate the noise reduction effect of hearing protection device. Special training on the selection and use of hearing protection device should be strengthened, so as to ensure that workers wear them correctly and improve the protective effect of hearing protection device.

Concurrent Validity of The U21 Men's Soccer Physical Test Battery

This study aims to test the validity of the U-21 men’s soccer physical test battery. The method used in this research is an evaluation approach. Data collection techniques in this research used tests and measurements. The subjects involved in this research were U-21 male soccer athletes in Papua. The total number of subjects participating in concurrent validity testing was 31 athletes. The instruments used in this research are body mass index (BMI) to measure body composition, sit and reach to measure flexibility, 30-meter sprint to measure speed, shuttle run to measure agility, leg and back dynamometer to measure muscle strength, and standing board. jump to measure explosive power, and the Multistage Fitness Test (MFT) to measure cardiovascular endurance. Validity testing uses a concurrent validity approach. The data analysis technique used in concurrent validity testing is using correlation product moment. This test is carried out by looking at the relationship between the tests on the first day and the second day. The results showed that each test item on the U-21 men’s soccer physical test battery had a calculated r value greater than the r table. Thus, it can be concluded that the U-21 Putra football physical test battery has a high validity value. Further research needs to test the reliability of the instrument to get a physical test instrument that meets the standards.

Inflammatory and Oxidant Responses to Arduous Military Training: Associations with Stress, Sleep, and Performance.

Arduous military training frequently consists of prolonged physical activity, sleep disturbance, and stress that increases musculoskeletal injury risk and performance decrements. Inflammatory and oxidative stress responses have been reported in response to arduous training, but with inconsistencies across markers and with under-representation of women. The purpose of the current report was to measure circulating inflammation and oxidative stress responses to military training and to correlate biomarkers with subjective measures of stress and sleep quality as well as military fitness test performance. Candidates undergoing the 10-week Marine Corps Officer Candidate School (OCS; 101 men; 62 women) were monitored, with demographic and questionnaire data collected, and blood drawn before and after OCS. Blood was analyzed for six markers of inflammation and three markers of oxidative stress. Associations between biomarkers and questionnaire and fitness test performance were tested. All measured inflammatory markers as well as plasma antioxidant capacity were elevated following OCS. The inflammatory increase was higher in women for several markers. Sleep disturbance and stress perception were associated with IL-6, IL-10 and CRP concentrations, suggesting that low sleep disturbance and stress perception were associated with low inflammatory load. Additionally, those with the highest inflammation at each time point performed worse on fitness tests than those with low inflammation. Following arduous military training, the circulating environment in a significant portion of officer candidates resembled chronic low-grade inflammation. This circulating inflammatory environment appeared worse with poor sleep, high stress perception, and poor fitness test performance, with utility observed for CRP, IL-6, and IL-10 as biomarkers of these responses. Since inflammation may contribute to musculoskeletal injury and performance decrements, minimizing chronic inflammation during military training should be explored.

Physical Fitness in the Armed Forces: A Comprehensive Study of International Assessment Practices

The aim of this study is to thoroughly examine the physical fitness assessment methods used in the armed forces of various countries and to evaluate the physical fitness criteria necessary for military personnel to maintain their operational capabilities and overall health. Within the scope of the research, physical fitness assessment tests used in the armed forces of 17 countries, including the United States, Germany, Australia, Austria, the Czech Republic, China, Finland, France, Georgia, Canada, Ireland, the United Kingdom, Israel, Sweden, Latvia, Russia, and Turkey, were examined. It was observed that the tests aim to determine the soldiers' muscle strength, aerobic capacity, endurance, and overall physical fitness status. Additionally, it was found that while the physical fitness test and evaluation criteria applied by these countries vary, their fundamental purposes in practice are similar. Research has shown that maintaining physical fitness levels results in increased resilience of soldiers against problems and difficulties they may face in combat conditions, contributing to operational success. In this context, it is of great importance for national armies to continue and enhance their physical fitness programs. Moreover, it is essential to systematically review and update physical fitness test evaluations in accordance with scientific advancements, which will contribute to varying operational requirements in the armies. In conclusion, maintaining and improving physical fitness levels is a critical factor for the operational success of soldiers. Therefore, it should be regularly monitored and enhanced. This research aims to emphasize the importance of physical fitness test evaluations applied in national armies and contribute to the development of related studies. By sharing the practices implemented, it aims to take significant steps internationally towards enhancing soldiers' physical capacities.