Physical and Combat Fitness Tests: Perception and Future Vision

Physical abilities have been of great importance for survival since the early development of humankind and society. Organized armies had to gather a large number of people and train them as quickly as possible. They required a method for testing the basic abilities needed for this purpose. When we look at historical development of physical tests around the world, we find various reasons for the presence and implementation of these tests.

The IDF changed the Physical and Combat Tests several times within the past three decades. The reasoning for these changes was to implement conclusions made after several military operations conducted in past years, whether for health reasons or mission analysis.

The IDF decided on two main characteristics for testing military personnel: 1) Supporting personnel is to undergo a health aim test; 2) Combative personnel is to undergo a functional aim test.

The main dilemma in military for the future is to determine what are the military objectives and means necessary and that are available for the next battle, and `Do we test/train as we fight`.