Physical Fitness in the United States Marine Corps: History, Current Practices and Implications for Mission Accomplishment and Human Performance

摘要

History has shown mission accomplishment to be a hallmark of a Marine Officer's duty. Mission accomplishment can be a very difficult undertaking and there are several contributing variables. Two variables that enhance mission accomplishment are the maintenance of high personal readiness and physical fitness levels. In consideration of these issues, this thesis takes an organizational behavior and systems-based approach to the study of physical fitness in the United States Marine Corps (USMC). The purpose and intent of this study is to gain an appreciation and understanding of physical readiness. Thesis objectives are a history of physical fitness in the military, a description of the "systems" approach and an analysis of the current system. In reviewing these areas, recommendations can be made for improvements. This study will outline the implications of physical fitness on mission accomplishment and conclude with recommendations for improved fitness programs in the military.