The Effect of an Interval Training Program on the Fitness of Combat Soldiers

Background: In this study we wanted to test the effectiveness of a training method on combat fighters that can replace running for maintaining aerobic and anaerobic capacity and normal body weight.

Such a training method is necessary to maintain combat fitness where and when running is not possible.

The study included 60 male subjects in mandatory service aged 20-23 (mean age 20.45 years). The subjects were divided into two groups: the control group (30 subjects) who trained regularly with training that combined running with strength training, and the intervention group (30 subjects) who performed only exercises – agility and strength training, and avoided long-distance runs (over 60 meters).

Aim: To examine how a six-week intervention program that includes high-intensity interval training as an alternative to running training, has an effect on maintaining the fighter`s physical fitness.

Methods: This study is a prospective intervention study using an unblinded randomly-controlled trial.

A. The intervention group: practiced three sessions per week that did not include duration runs, each training incorporating a wide range of muscle groups and was performed at short intervals with short recovery times between sets.

B. Control group: this group exercised according to the program of three workouts per week, with each workout including running (according to the training bar – 5-8 km) and strength training to be performed in sets with breaks, until a resting pulse.