U.S. Army’s Bold “Stronger People are HARDER to KILL!” Campaign

(LibertySociety.com) – The U.S. Army’s new fitness initiative “Stronger People are HARDER to KILL!” is transforming military readiness with a holistic approach.

At a Glance

The National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) directs the Army to elevate fitness standards for combat-arms roles.
The Army Combat Fitness Test (ACFT) has sparked political debates since its introduction.
The Army tests the six-event Army Combat Readiness Test (ACRT) to better assess a soldier’s readiness.
The Holistic Health and Fitness (H2F) program focuses on comprehensive soldier well-being.

Fitness Standards and Political Implications

The U.S. Army’s initiative “Stronger People are HARDER to KILL!” reflects a return to core fitness fundamentals to boost combat readiness. In conjunction with the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), Congress is pushing for higher fitness standards in combat roles. This includes elevating the Army Combat Fitness Test (ACFT) for ground troops like infantry and Special Forces, with new implementations due within 18 months. This change marks a pivot from previous years’ messaging and aligns with a call for traditional, robust fitness standards.

Adjustments to the fitness standards have stirred political waters. Though lawmakers mandate improvements, the NDAA allows fitness scores to be gender-specific, avoiding the need for gender neutrality. This decision has sparked debates, notably among Republicans and feminist groups. Yet, the ACFT remains controversial due to its perceived accessibility despite its rigorous demands to achieve a top score.

Holistic Health and Fitness Evolution

The Army’s embrace of a comprehensive training paradigm through H2F embodies a cultural shift within the ranks. This system, while supporting physical supremacy, also emphasizes cognitive, spiritual, nutritional, and emotional soldier wellness. H2F intertwines updates across leadership development, policy, and soldier facilities, focusing on ensuring readiness in multi-domain operations.

“H2F represents a cultural change for ‘My Squad.’ Soldiers must optimize physical, nutritional, sleep, spiritual, and mental readiness in order to master the fundamentals of being a soldier.” – Sgt. Maj. of the Army Michael Grinston

Army personnel, inspired by the “Stronger People are HARDER to KILL!” message, are encouraged by H2F’s investment in individual soldier well-being. Enhanced overall health aids in preventing injuries and reducing healthcare costs, fostering operational effectiveness.

New Testing Protocols and Future Implications

As part of its future-forward vision, the Army trials the Army Combat Readiness Test (ACRT) to measure muscular and cardiovascular endurance, among other fitness aspects. This move seeks to address critiques of the ACFT’s structure, which lacks components crucial for injury prevention such as flexibility. Future adjustments focus on better-meeting combat demands.

“[The ARCT] is as close physically as you can get to replicate the types of physical actions you’ll do on the battlefield.” – Staff Sgt. Talen Peterson

Meanwhile, a proposed fitness test including gender-specific assessments is being considered to resolve gender bias concerns. Ongoing research and feedback continue shaping these combat readiness approaches, aiming to enhance preparedness in line with evolving military needs.