Importance of strength training for sustaining performance and health in military personnel

Abstract

The physical capacity of male and female warfighters is challenged on the modern battlefield by heavy loads and high-intensity work. When designing training programmes for warfighters, approaches for developing strength and power alongside endurance must be considered. Strength training often requires facilities that may not be available during deployments while multiple stressors may impair or decrease overall performance. Understanding the effect of military environments on warfighter performance and acknowledging the variation in demands for individuals during field training and deployments, including possible sex differences, is essential to promote the development of adequate physical reserves (strength, power and endurance), attenuate risk for injury and promote health during and after military careers. The purpose of this narrative review is to discuss considerations for programming physical training in a military environment where 'one size does not fit all'. In addition, a brief description of physiological contributions (neural and muscular) to strength development is included.