How many people actually educate their Soldiers on nutrition and living a healthy lifestyle??

You are correct that most people do not care and will blow people off, especially healthcare professionals like yourself. Which is unfortunate that people do not care until it affects them directly. I have had Soldiers in my Platoon that we were able to fix though. We had a Soldier that was in the process of being reviewed for being kicked out due to his weight. We gave him a gym buddy, taught him about why his nutrition matters in a way that he would listen to, and made the process fun for him. Fast forward 3 years and he is still in the Army, can out lift almost everyone I know in the military, and still maintains a healthy diet. Most Soldiers might fall into the " I don't care, I'm not going to listen to you" category, but it is nice to help out when you can. Especially in the flexibility aspect of my question, which I have never seen Soldiers ignore if it is taught in a way that isn't lecturing them.

I definitely try not to preach, but open their eyes to what their life could look like if they continue to be overweight and unhealthy in terms of quality of life, family time, career. Rarely do I see a patient who is genuinely interested in making positive changes. Usually they blame someone/something else and take zero personal accountability. It's really disheartening.

Fat and lazy can't do the job! A little over weight? Exercise more! Obese? How the hell does someone get that way??? GET OUT! If anyone Can't do the job, Get Out!

I agree with you. Unfortunately it seems that the military has turned into a social welfare system.

SFC Joe S. Davis Jr., MSM, DSL When I was a Platoon Sergeant, I tried to throw bits and pieces in here and there during counseling or during time that we had together as an element. I am lucky enough to have a few Physical Therapists and Athletic Trainers as friends who have let me tag along for a few weeks of internship over the years. This has helped me to learn more about how to prevent injuries and increase performance. Leaders are already very busy as it is managing MOS duties, annual training, counseling, etc. I think it is important to introduce new stretches during PT time though, or talk about different topics when you have the Platoon together. Not all Soldiers will listen obviously, but when they get that sore knee after running, or need help dropping weight for upcoming APFT... they will know their leadership is keeping themselves educated on the topics so that they can help when needed. Obviously we do not need to become subject matter experts, but even a little bit of knowledge can save the Army money and can help Soldiers to stay at the unit to complete their jobs.