A Navy working group is looking at far-reaching changes to the sailor fitness, including the physical readiness test taken twice a year. Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy (AW/NAC) Mike Stevens has floated the idea of an operational test along the lines of the job-related tests taken by civilian firefighters. with event similar to firefighting fitness tests.
What would you like to see in a new fitness test?
Would you be in favor of a once-a-year operational test instead of a second PRT?
Some experts have suggested events like a fireman carry or dragging a charged firehose to measure muscle endarance via on the job TK. What tasks do you perform as part of your naval service that might make a good challenge in this kind of test?
Navy Personnel Command is brainstorming ways to better measure sailor fitness, including a possible overhaul of the physical readiness test.
What would you think of an operational test with a fireman carry, equipment drag and ladder climb in full gear?
As far as the PRT, what exercises would you like to see instead of pushups, situps and the 1.5-mile run? Experts consulting the Navy have also suggested ditching sit-ups and pushups favor of moves like the plank, which is a more foolproof way to measure muscular endurance.
Navy Times wants to hear suggestions from current and former sailors. Send your ideas to Meghann Myers. And be specific. Your suggestions may be featured in an upcoming article.
Meghann Myers is the Pentagon bureau chief at Military Times. She covers operations, policy, personnel, leadership and other issues affecting service members.
