New Navy Physical Fitness Test
MILLINGTON, Tenn. – The Navy, working with the University of Memphis Department of Health and Sport Sciences, will be conducting a test of several new physical fitness exercises beginning July 11.
Currently, the Navy and the University of Memphis are seeking Sailors in the Millington and Memphis, Tenn., area to participate in the test. In order to effectively develop potential performance standards, the test will use volunteers from each age and gender category, as established by the Navy Physical Readiness Program (PRP) instruction (OPNAVINST 6110.1 series). The beta test will last through the end of July.
“This does not mean that we have plans to change the physical readiness test (PRT),” said Bill Moore, director, Navy PRP. “We are always looking at process improvement. An open mind is essential to the program – whether we are considering new exercise options or focusing on nutrition. Our current program is based on research and we are honored to be working jointly with the University of Memphis.”
The test will incorporate several muscular strength tests, including the leg/hip dynamometer and standing long jump. Both exercises use the same muscle groups (i.e., the legs, hips, and back) that are used when performing a squat, lifting a box, and other such movements that occur daily in Navy life. There will also be a short (only 15-yard), distanced timed event called the pro-agility test. It measures an individual’s speed and agility as they accelerate, decelerate, and change direction. Again, these are common movements practiced both in sports and on the job. Endurance events being tested include a 300-yard shuttle run, two-kilometer rower and five-kilometer bike test.
“There are multiple components to physical fitness, but they can be broken down into two major categories – health related and skill related,” said Lt. Cmdr. David Peterson, exercise physiologist for the Navy’s PRP. “Health-related components include: cardiovascular fitness, body composition, flexibility, muscular strength, and muscular endurance. Skill related components include: speed, agility, balance, coordination, reaction time and power. The current PRT incorporates most of the health-related components of fitness, but none of the skill-related. Exercises chosen for evaluation in the beta test not only incorporate health related components but skill related components as well.”
According to Moore, the beta test is being conducted for the sake of research only.
“This is an exciting opportunity to participate in a state-of-the-art research study. However, I need to reemphasize that this is for research purposes only and that there are currently no plans to change the Navy PRT,” Moore said.
For more information, visit the Navy’s physical readiness Web page at http://www.npc.navy.mil/support/physical.