Military Fitness Training – Running

Running is an excellent way to get fit. But more importantly for the armed services, being fit to run is essential. Survival of the fittest. Running forms a large part of military training.

Running is a very versatile method of getting fit. With good footwear, you can run just about anywhere, and with the right clothing it is possible to run all year round.

When running you increase your heart rate and make your cardiovascular system more effective. You also staret of use fat reserves for energy, which is why running aids weight loss so well. Running also strengthens let’s, thighs and back, and can improve agility and flexibility in the legs. Most of the negative effects of running, such as knee and other joint problems, shin splints and blisters, are all caused by doing too much too soon, as well as by wearing inappropiate footwear and clothing.

The military train armed personnel to run efficiently, to conserve energy and reduce injury. Many of the people that run for fitness and pick injuries do so due to poor technique and bad habits.

When running, you should aim to remain relaxed, with an upright posture. With a pack it is natural to lean slightly forwards, however be careful to not lean too far. Arm action is also important. Poor arm movement whe running can lead to reduced efficiency, whereas a good arm movement can actually help to propel yout body along.

How you use your feet can also reduce injury. The recommended method is the ‘heel-ball’ technique, simply meaning that as you run, you land on your heel first, then roll your foot to the ball before pushing off. This great reduces impact. Those that run by landing the whole foot at once are call flat-footed. Not only is this method less efficient, but it leads to more joint problems.

To get the most out of running you should mix up your workouts, with short intensive runs, medium middle distance runs, and longer endurance runs. Remember, professional middle distance runners (800m and 1500m) train over longer distances. You need to combine endurance and speed.

Short runs should be at a fast pace, around 6 minutes per mile for up to 30 minutes. You should not sprint, but should also not have the breath to be able to talk during the run.

A medium military run is around 45 minutes. The pace is over 7 minutes per mile, and you should be able to talk while running.

The longest run is the endurance run. You should run for a minimum of 90 minutes and during the run, you should be able to hold a conversation. If you wish to build up stamina, start to carry a pack and consider this a pre-combat quick march (run)! Remember that during the Falklands War, British soldiers ran 20 miles overnight with full packs before engaging in battle almost immediately afterwards. This is the level of fitness that every soldier should aspire to.

Train several times a week, with longer runs at the weekends and the shorter runs in the mornings / evenings. Always look to improve time or distance, and aim to carry a full military pack (40-60 pounds).

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One Response to “Military Fitness Training – Running”

Nehal Kazim

May 28, 2009 at 4:38 pm

This article sets the foundation for a person who is looking to increase endurance and improve cardiovascular fitness.

If a person really strives to build a high level of endurance, they must increase the intensity. Carrying full military packs is an effective method of doing just that.

By reaching a high level of intensity, the amount of endurance and strength built up will be sufficient to run for longer periods of time.

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