Optimizing the physical training of military trainees

Initial military training is designed to prepare new trainees for the requirements of military service. Providing a physical training program to optimize initial training success while minimizing the potential for injury,especially overuse injury, is vital. Several key factors, including initial trainee fitness, other training requirements, and program-induced cumulative overload, need to be considered when developing and implementing a physical training program for a military trainee. The use of an undulating model, incorporating elements of metabolic and neuromuscular conditioning, as well as load carriage conditioning should form the framework of a military trainee's physical training plan.