Pool of potential enlistees is shrinking - due to obesity - any suggestions?

LTC Jason Strickland — Thu, 16 Jul 2015 09:01:06 -0400

Almost 1/3 of young adults are too overweight to even be considered for military service. This hampers our readiness, puts even more pressure on recruiters, and has over the years has caused our leaders to modify some entrance standards. How can we address this so that our military continues to have a plentiful pool of candidates?
http://www.militarytimes.com/story/military/2015/07/15/report-nearly-1-in-3-young-adults-too-fat-for-military/30178023/

Response by SCPO David Lockwood made Jul 16 at 2015 9:04 AM

SCPO David Lockwood — Thu, 16 Jul 2015 09:04:40 -0400

Pre bootcamp!

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 16 at 2015 9:04 AM

MSG Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 16 Jul 2015 09:04:55 -0400

No suggestions. It just takes heart to meet the demands of the military. When you look at the enlistee, you can tell a lot by how they look. Unfortunately in the private sector they look at that as well. First impression last a lifetime.

Response by SGT Ben Keen made Jul 16 at 2015 9:11 AM

SGT Ben Keen — Thu, 16 Jul 2015 09:11:14 -0400

Stopping eating at Mc$hits! Stop taking the easy way out and actually walk to the corner store rather than driving. Watch what you eat and how much of it. Ask for a glass of water rather than a soda at dinner.

Response by Sgt Aaron Kennedy, MS made Jul 16 at 2015 9:15 AM

Sgt Aaron Kennedy, MS — Thu, 16 Jul 2015 09:15:51 -0400

Honestly, I don't think it will affect us much. We have "self selection bias" anyways. How often do we have someone say "I would have joined the Navy/USMC/Army/Air Force but they wouldn't take me because I was too fat?" Every USMC & Army recruiter I know will work with someone to get them down to DOD regs to give them a fighting chance. The real disqualifies for us is "drug use" and criminal activity (usually drug use).

Our recruitment requirements aren't so high that it will affect us that much, yet...

Response by CMSgt Mark Schubert made Jul 16 at 2015 9:24 AM

CMSgt Mark Schubert — Thu, 16 Jul 2015 09:24:35 -0400

Don't eat so much! Of the 1in 3 young adults who are overweight, I wager that 95% of them have unhealthy, overweight parents! Be the example for your children and your grandchildren - that will help a lot!

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 16 at 2015 9:41 AM

SSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 16 Jul 2015 09:41:24 -0400

We don't need to do anything. Those that want to serve won't let that stand in their way, they will lose the weight. That is the kind of person we want in the Military anyways.

Response by SPC Jan Allbright, M.Sc., R.S. made Jul 16 at 2015 9:56 AM

SPC Jan Allbright, M.Sc., R.S. — Thu, 16 Jul 2015 09:56:17 -0400

How about returning PE to schools.
"But even as virtually every state has undertaken significant school reforms, many American students are being granted little or no time in the gym."
http://www.nytimes.com/2012/07/11/education/even-as-schools-battle-obesity-physical-education-is-sidelined.html?_r=0

To save articles or get newsletters, alerts or recommendations – all free.

Response by TSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 16 at 2015 10:02 AM

TSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 16 Jul 2015 10:02:58 -0400

It's all about having the will and discipline to eat right and work out. It's not that hard honestly. If they want it that bad, they'll do whatever they can to make it.

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 16 at 2015 10:31 AM

1SG Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 16 Jul 2015 10:31:36 -0400

The fix would be involved public education. Increase national awareness and promote better living through vast media tools available today. Technology is one of the major inhibitors of physical activity kets use it toward the fix. The young spend an enormous amount of time in front of computers, game consoles, and phones. Parents need to be the enforcers by limiting this time.
We as a military can continue to demand high physical standards. Annalysis as shown that SMs who were obese prior to entry tend to fall off the wagon and eventually are discharged for overweight. Not all, but more than those who enter service with good habits already in place. With the drawdown in military numbers we can continue for some time without major impact to recruitment.

Increased National health campaigning is a good start. Target the adults who have the greatest impact on our nations youth. Embedded healthy habit messaging into the the lives of our youths. Marketing folks use this technique for sales, lets make it work for our nations future.

Response by 2ndLt Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 16 at 2015 10:55 AM

2ndLt Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 16 Jul 2015 10:55:12 -0400

Obesity itself is not a major issue, fat can be burned off and you can teach someone how to properly maintain themselves. The real issue, in my opinion, is going to be with the problems that are caused by obesity that could have lasting effects, even if the individual loses their weight. This includes but isn't limited to diabetes, heart problems, joint issues, even excess skin if the persons weight was severe enough.

Response by SSG Red Hoffman made Jul 16 at 2015 11:14 AM

SSG Red Hoffman — Thu, 16 Jul 2015 11:14:25 -0400

The target audience here is the parents of this country. Being a good parent will provide guidance and health conscious advice to the children of this nation. Many of our military are the children of veterans who have prepared them for life as a soldier. I think the ROTC program should be a little more aggressive in expanding their role in the academic development starting in middle school. Obesity will continue to be a problem, but informing children on the importance of maintaining good health will be key in keeping this country militarily ready.

Response by PO1 John Miller made Jul 16 at 2015 1:51 PM

PO1 John Miller — Thu, 16 Jul 2015 13:51:06 -0400

As SPC Jan Allbright, M.Sc., R.S. stated, return PE to schools and maybe even "Healthy Eating" classes if they aren't already taught. I seem to remember my own school days always being taught to eat fresh fruits and vegetables and limit my consumption of red meat and junk food.
Make healthy eating more affordable. I sometimes buy groceries from the natural/green type stores and it's VERY expensive.
I'm not sure about current recruiter practices, but maybe have recruiters schedule regular PT sessions with their DEPpers/poolees.

Response by Sgt Tom Vaughn made Jul 17 at 2015 1:38 AM

Sgt Tom Vaughn — Fri, 17 Jul 2015 01:38:35 -0400

Even more is the leadership who is dismantling our readiness We can fix fat !
We can't fix coward !!!!

Response by LTC Jason Strickland made Jul 17 at 2015 3:54 PM

LTC Jason Strickland — Fri, 17 Jul 2015 15:54:10 -0400

Great ad by the American Heart Association and Funny or Die that relates directly to this topic. "French fries are practically salads...that's why I like mine with ranch!"
http://FunnyOrDie.com/m/9njy

Pizza Farm with Nick Offerman

Nick Offerman shows how easy it is to provide kids with healthy, farm-fresh snacks like pizza, taquitos, and fish sticks harvested straight off the vine.

Response by LTC Jason Strickland made Jul 19 at 2015 8:04 AM

LTC Jason Strickland — Sun, 19 Jul 2015 08:04:52 -0400

Maybe it's the cartoons our children are watching?? A new study about childhood obesity, published in the Journal of Consumer Psychology, claims that fat cartoon characters can trigger eating and body image problems in children.
http://www.parentherald.com/articles/7811/20150715/fat-cartoons-characters-linked-to-childhood-obesity-yes-says-study.htm

Fat Cartoons Characters Linked to Childhood Obesity? Yes, Says Study

A new study about childhood obesity published in the Journal of Consumer Psychology claims that fat cartoon characters can trigger eating and body image problems in children. The study, which was done at Colorado State University, said that children, who are often exposed to plump and chubby cartoon characters, may easily develop indulgences in food.

Response by MAJ Bill Maynard made Jul 20 at 2015 1:18 PM

MAJ Bill Maynard — Mon, 20 Jul 2015 13:18:17 -0400

Double the number of Army JROTC programs in the USA... I'll PT them enough for them to all meet the entrance standards.

Response by SSG James Arlington made Jul 20 at 2015 10:36 PM

SSG James Arlington — Mon, 20 Jul 2015 22:36:32 -0400

Is that soldier for real in that photo?

Response by SGT Kristin Wiley made Jul 21 at 2015 8:45 AM

SGT Kristin Wiley — Tue, 21 Jul 2015 08:45:19 -0400

I agree with SSgt Private RallyPoint Member , for recruits we do not need to do anything. For our current military members there are a lot of changes that can be made in the DFACs and during PT that can help keep us a healthy and fit military force.

Response by SPC Margaret Higgins made Jul 21 at 2015 9:46 AM

SPC Margaret Higgins — Tue, 21 Jul 2015 09:46:01 -0400

During the Delayed Entry Program, (If that still exists.) I suggest that all potential recruits be put on a diet, (Or that they go on a diet.) and that they exercise; up to military standards.

Response by SFC A.M. Drake made Jul 21 at 2015 1:45 PM

SFC A.M. Drake — Tue, 21 Jul 2015 13:45:47 -0400

Get out more when you're young. Go outside and play instead of video games.

Response by Maj Chris Nelson made Jul 21 at 2015 4:56 PM

Maj Chris Nelson — Tue, 21 Jul 2015 16:56:21 -0400

I think that there are a couple things at play here.... 1. Those that want to join will do what they need to do (I recently read an article about someone loosing 130 pounds in order to join). 2. As time and diets have changed, the overall stature of humans has become larger....not always fat wise.... taller, and overall just bigger. The more our technology has improved along with our knowledge, why do we still use the old tape and height or height and weight determination? There are better ways. While I understand that above a 25 or 28% BMI may have long term impact, I have seen some of our military members that are at/above that size do impressive things on PT test. I am not saying to let everyone in, but maybe revisit the parameters that are currently established. If found ok, leave it alone...if change may be warranted, make the change.

Response by LTC Jason Strickland made Aug 3 at 2015 12:20 PM

LTC Jason Strickland — Mon, 03 Aug 2015 12:20:08 -0400

It appears the Navy is relaxing their standards...
http://m.military.com/daily-news/2015/08/03/navy-to-loosen-body-weight-standards-in-fitness-test.html?ESRC=todayinmil.sm

Response by LTC Jason Strickland made Aug 19 at 2015 6:26 PM

LTC Jason Strickland — Wed, 19 Aug 2015 18:26:42 -0400

Former head of US Northern Command, Gen Gene Renaurt, offers his thoughts - and they aren't promising!
http://gazette.com/general-colorado-springs-kids-are-too-fat-to-fight/article/1557692

General: Colorado Springs kids are too fat to fight

A group of high-ranking military brass held a Colorado Springs news conference Wednesday warning parents and politicians that most kids in the Pikes Peak region are too fat, frail or stupid to fight for their country. The group headed by retired Air Force Gen. Gene Renuart said 70 percent of teens in the Pikes Peak region don't meet military recruitment standards, with the majority missing the mark for weight.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 22 at 2015 3:01 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 22 Sep 2015 15:01:09 -0400

Oh he must be in the nasty guard lol

Response by LTC Jason Strickland made Jan 11 at 2016 7:58 AM

LTC Jason Strickland — Mon, 11 Jan 2016 07:58:31 -0500

On a related note, the Army’s 2015 Health of the Force report, released in November, says 13% of Soldiers are classified as obese and 78,000 soldiers do not meet body mass index standards, a measuring of fat based on height, weight and neck size. Soldiers who don’t make BMI standards are 36% less likely to deploy than soldiers who meet the standards.
The report calculates it would cost $4.2 billion to replace everyone in the Army with a BMI greater than 30, which is why physical fitness programs are so important.
http://armymedicine.mil/Documents/Health_of_the_Force_Report_Nov_2015.pdf

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 11 at 2016 9:13 AM

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 11 Jan 2016 09:13:37 -0500

LTC Jason Strickland The problem is greater than the Army's needs. It's a reflection on the health and physical activity level of the nation. Fast food, processed food, the growth toward the singular family instead of community have all contributed to this, combined with areas of "Food Deserts" where there are five fast food resteraunts for one grocery store, combine this with playing video games, iPhone surfing, and computers being regarded as activities and what we have is an out of shape and overweight population. As a nation, as parents and as individuals we should do what we can to change this. Some ideas might be do food prep on the weekend and set aside individual prepared meals to grab and go during the week, change the kind of snacks we have available to healthy ones like apples, oranges, bananas (teens eat what is available), have healthy go to options for when you're in a hurry that are portable. don't buy coke by the case but do buy water by the case.
Support desires to participate in club sports as well as school sports, encourage healthy group activities bike riding, hiking. Introduce them to new types of activities boxing, rowing, rock climbing...
Start programs to encourage, give ideas, and teach healthy habits in your community. Start with your own family, spread it to your neighbors... It doesn't have to start big.

It's all about starting healthy habits early, not giving in to what is easy, saying no.

For those in the Army we need to enforce Army standards. There is already a program in place that offers weight counseling, medical intervention (identify if the person is unable to lose weight for a medial reason), meal planning through a dietitian... If someone wants to stay in, stay healthy,.... they'll put forth the effort to do so.

Response by SP5 Mark Kuzinski made Mar 28 at 2016 10:53 PM

SP5 Mark Kuzinski — Mon, 28 Mar 2016 22:53:43 -0400

Great post!!

Response by SrA Matthew Knight made Mar 29 at 2016 12:02 AM

SrA Matthew Knight — Tue, 29 Mar 2016 00:02:33 -0400

A stronger focus on physical fitness and education in school wouldn't hurt. I'm not saying we should be trying to whip every single kid into shape for the military's sake but it wouldn't hurt in general to put a focus on PE programs. I know my PE program in school was pretty much a joke. If you didn't want to hardly participate you didn't have to and me being the lazy kid I was didn't. On the yearly presidential fitness test I put no effort in. In fact, on the one mile run me and my two buddies would literally just walk and visit the whole time. It bit me in the ass too. I started trying to get into shape before basic and couldn't hardly run a half mile. Luckily, AF basic is long enough that by the end I was in decent enough shape to pass but I still struggle to this day with running especially. Not being very active and God bless my parents but living in a house with smokers I think did me in to an extent. I wish I would have participated more.

Response by PO1 William "Chip" Nagel made Mar 29 at 2016 7:01 AM

PO1 William "Chip" Nagel — Tue, 29 Mar 2016 07:01:17 -0400

Isn't that Sad. Too many "Obese" young people that can't join. What the Hell!

Response by SSgt Isidro Galguera made Mar 29 at 2016 4:52 PM

SSgt Isidro Galguera — Tue, 29 Mar 2016 16:52:28 -0400

Lets don't just blame lack of PE at schools. My kids have always joined sports motivated by me and the wife. Gymnastics, cross country, track, anything to get your body busy. If you want to serve then you will pay the price to get in shape. So many young people join out of shape expecting boot camp (especially Marines and Army0 to be a summer camp. Then they complain that they fail because the military was against them. Suck it up!!! Semper Fi!

Response by GySgt Fred Martinez made Mar 29 at 2016 5:22 PM

GySgt Fred Martinez — Tue, 29 Mar 2016 17:22:35 -0400

I think the physical fitness standards in all need to be higher we are a force that needs to be ready. Bad guys ain't going to wait for you to get in shape.

Response by SPC Dale St. Pierre made Mar 29 at 2016 8:32 PM

SPC Dale St. Pierre — Tue, 29 Mar 2016 20:32:16 -0400

Easy, stop the senseless rcp of E-4 -E-5 , so you can chapter out the waste of space Joes, and keep the worker types. Also the whole promotion system needs an overhaul. So it actually promotes leaders, not just space fillers.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made May 21 at 2017 8:37 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 21 May 2017 20:37:03 -0400

It's always pretty fucking hilarious how is all "If they really wanted to, they'd lose the weight, we don't need to give anything for them." But in reality, the military isn't made up of a bunch of hung ho Patriots with freedom boners. They don't look at it as an opportunity, they look at it as a sacrifice of their intended future. 90% of the military signed up for the benefits and stayed for the fun... Or the benefits. Then maybe one day down the line you popped your first freedom boner. All this pretense that maintaining one of the largest militaries in the world while keeping it all volunteer is easy, you're out of your mind. Kids are generally getting fatter. YES we need to adapt to that. Give them more time in basic, or reimplement fat camp before basic. This gets those troops in quicker and gets the army those guys with more dedication than you think. But for a lot of them they have no idea how to work out or lose weight or just don't have many of the resources.

Response by CPL Jay Strickland made May 21 at 2017 8:54 PM

CPL Jay Strickland — Sun, 21 May 2017 20:54:24 -0400

You have to solve this in High school and middle school. Make gym a mandatory class again and instead of playing sports and goofing have these kids hit the weights and run.

Response by SSgt Bob Mobbs made May 21 at 2017 10:29 PM

SSgt Bob Mobbs — Sun, 21 May 2017 22:29:25 -0400

When I enlisted in 71 I exceeded AF max weight. I went in on what was called a MEDREP (Medical Remediation Enlistment Program - at least that's what I seem to recall it meaning). I was taken out of Basic on training day 7, put in a special squadron that included diet, exercise, education and weekly weigh ins. After I lost the required weight I was put back at training day 7 and completed basic normally. I then went on to serve 6 years. Where there is a will, there is a way.

Response by CPL Paul Balares made May 21 at 2017 10:39 PM

CPL Paul Balares — Sun, 21 May 2017 22:39:45 -0400

I wanted to continue with my service but I couldn't get my E-5 due to being overweight.

Response by CPL Paul Balares made May 21 at 2017 10:47 PM

CPL Paul Balares — Sun, 21 May 2017 22:47:54 -0400

I got out as a CPL and I've seen a lot of NCOs who looked obese to me and should've gotten out of the Army. I also thought the measurements for my age was ridiculous.

Response by Sgt Paul Gerhardt made May 22 at 2017 12:02 AM

Sgt Paul Gerhardt — Mon, 22 May 2017 00:02:14 -0400

Well

Response by Sgt Paul Gerhardt made May 22 at 2017 12:32 AM

Sgt Paul Gerhardt — Mon, 22 May 2017 00:32:18 -0400

I have a suggestion, which if employed properly may help active-duty/reserve soldiers AND civilians alike: Mentoring and "soft recruitment" much like how 35M's operate, we can encourage our young leaders to engage the civilian populace whenever possible, be inclusive, and welcome the opportunity to share information about the service with our citizens who may be curious. Most of us didn't join up by making up our minds and walking into a recruiters office; we saw someone we wanted to be like, growing up: Someone who INSPIRED us to serve. We need to do that for the next generations, and develop relationships with these citizens and help give guidance toward realizing their goals, especially if those goals include the Military.
Practically speaking, all this would require us to change is this: Encourage soldiers to "volunteer" for community volunteer work supporting youth sports programs. Many kids don't have access to youth athletics because of: Scheduling issues/requirements their parents & guardians can't accommodate; Lack of public funding; Lack of sufficient/sufficiently qualified volunteers & lack of appropriate spaces available. Our military bases have ALL of these assets, readily available. We just have to incentivize our soldiers (especially junior leaders and non-NCO's) to "develop their leadership skills" by practicing on potential recruits, in service to their local communities.
In practice, it may look something like this: 2nd Squad, Bravo Co, 373rd MI Bn out of JBLM is assigned (from a pool of "volunteers") to advise/assist the local kids' <Sport> (field hockey, football, soccer, track, what-have-you) teams. They coordinate with local recruiting offices to enlist the help of young "Poolees" (pre-basic recruits in training) and the recruiting offices' supplies (funds well spent) which most already possess for recruiting efforts such as recruit PT.
In the end: Soldiers "volunteering" for these efforts get paid time off playing/coaching sports (spot-checked by their senior NCO's & officers) which develops junior leadership; the community sees us helping out; kids and young adults get to interact with the military in a positive environment; and levels of physical fitness amongst children increase. The field sports league assistance efforts in essence become ad hoc recruiting events, where we can show off our kit & vehicles (which kids love) and make more use of the facilities and equipment we pay for anyway.

Response by MSgt Private RallyPoint Member made May 22 at 2017 2:04 AM

MSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 22 May 2017 02:04:33 -0400

We had a female at Minot; oh she pissed me off. And management done a horrible job with her. She was a tall person to begin with, very over weight. She was seen by many of us, at the gym on a treadmill with burger king on the treadmill. Seriously, that is how she done lunch. NO ONE is suppose to deploy in this condition. She had regular ankle waivers and other BS in combination with her being excessive over weight. I get sent to Dharhan in late 95. Who shows up one month into my deployment? HER! Who takes the crap for this fat lazy unintelligent, can't do her damn job, piece of crap? ME! because she is not only from my unit, but from my flight.

I say, if you can't keep up, you need to be gone. I mean we are talking AF standards and you can't meet them?

Sorry, yes, I get a little hot under the collar over this issue.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made May 22 at 2017 9:05 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 22 May 2017 09:05:40 -0400

The real problem is "Habit". Human beings are creatures of Habit. Physical training is the only thing that is instilled in us by force instead by habit. We dress ourselves, we get our ASUs ready by ourselves. We salute and say "sir or ma'am" out of habit. But often PT in the morning is something that doesn't follow those guidelines. The best way to instill this Habit is to have soldiers do PT on their own (which every way you think is best). The 2nd thing I would do, is get rid of some of these vending machines. Seriously do we need a candy machine in the damn GYM. The 3rd thing is get rid of the FAST FOOD in the food court. Subway is fine but seriously "Popeyes". You have any idea how much weight soldiers gain because of that. Healthier alternatives at the Shoppette would help as well.

Response by Capt Dwayne Conyers made May 22 at 2017 11:17 AM

Capt Dwayne Conyers — Mon, 22 May 2017 11:17:18 -0400

LTC Jason Strickland, the move towards high-technology warfighting moves the continuum from muscle to noodle. However, good health is necessary in any instance… and health is threatened by obesity.

Contrary to what SSgt Private RallyPoint Member and SGT Kristin Wiley have started, however, a time could arise where conscription is necessary. If the pool of potential enlistees is insufficient, that could be considered a threat to national security.

SPC Jan Allbright, M.Sc., R.S.’s suggestion to increase PE is a start. However, the poor excuse for “food” that children eat is a problem. From high fructose corn syrup to genetically modified produce, the youth in this country are being set up for poor health… and all for the sake of corporate profits.

Thus, I stand alongside CPT Private RallyPoint Member and 1SG Private RallyPoint Member who suggested similar... in addition to more physical activity for youths, starting at the earliest ages.

For an example of how school lunches should be done, look at France as a great example. See: http://www.cbsnews.com/videos/frances-gourmet-school-lunches/

France's Gourmet School Lunches

Sunday Morning's Man in Paris David Turecamo explores France's strict diet regimen within the school system's gourmet lunch menu.

Response by COL John McClellan made May 22 at 2017 2:28 PM

COL John McClellan — Mon, 22 May 2017 14:28:00 -0400

It's a problem for our military and our Nation as a whole. Will continue to drive up health care costs, etc. Our previous First Lady was addressing it, and the Surgeon General should as well!

Response by Cpl Ray Frigerio made May 22 at 2017 2:28 PM

Cpl Ray Frigerio — Mon, 22 May 2017 14:28:37 -0400

we need another recession like in the 80's . I weighed 130 lbs. when I went in lol...

Response by COL John McClellan made May 22 at 2017 2:43 PM

COL John McClellan — Mon, 22 May 2017 14:43:21 -0400

A decade or more ago - Accessions Command was quoting these numbers: only 27% of 17-24 year-olds were eligible to enlist without a waiver! The big spike that significantly drove down that number was about obesity and overall lack of physical fitness in applicants, increases in childhood diabetes (related to same), increases in COPD, and increased use of prescription meds to control behavioral issues such as ADD.

Response by MGySgt James Forward made May 22 at 2017 3:39 PM

MGySgt James Forward — Mon, 22 May 2017 15:39:56 -0400

And that my friends is what we call a "Food Blister". See a lot of Air Force and Army folks infected with this disorder. Semper Fi

Response by CPO Robert (Mac) McGovern made May 22 at 2017 7:09 PM

CPO Robert (Mac) McGovern — Mon, 22 May 2017 19:09:31 -0400

No program's or real concerns will be addressed pertaining to the number of Americans who are too overweight for military service until it is declared a National Security Threat.

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made May 23 at 2017 1:45 AM

1SG Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 23 May 2017 01:45:18 -0400

We as a military force need to stop looking for quantity and look for quality if you are a "SLUG" than you don't need to be accepted into the military. "SLUG"="Slow Lazy Useless Guy, or Gal" I strongly disagree with the military conforming to the civilian population when it comes to standards. I understand readiness and understand the numbers game but damn, we cant have a force full of "SLUGS" who cant even move their own body weight.

Response by CPL Private RallyPoint Member made May 23 at 2017 3:28 AM

CPL Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 23 May 2017 03:28:26 -0400

When I joined 2009 I will probably 20 or more lbs overweight. They let me take the steps test and I passed so they let me in. I had Basic/AIT together (for Military Police). The training and strictness of diet and exercise helped me to lose what I needed to lose and I saw guys a lot bigger than me who did the same. The drill Sgts motivated us and "helped" us. I think that is the key. I had an LT who also did this while we were in Iraq and I lost weight there too. Dont be so strict initially on weight, let people join, then make them do their training all at once (not split training) so that they actually have a time to lose it and see how much better they can feel and look then maybe that will be motivation. I know the Drill Sgts should not have to be a weight loss instuctor but fact is some people need that strict guidiance to motivate them. Also , if in guard, while at drill we have a half a** gym that no one uses. Provide decent gyms and rotate squads throught it during drill weekend. MOTIVATION is key! Now granted, I am back overweight now due to medical conditions that cause me pain, pending discharge now. That is a whole other issue. Anyways, just my 2 cents.

Response by SPC Sheila Lewis made May 24 at 2017 1:33 PM

SPC Sheila Lewis — Wed, 24 May 2017 13:33:35 -0400

Recall Veterans to AD.

Response by Col Private RallyPoint Member made May 25 at 2017 4:17 PM

Col Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 25 May 2017 16:17:37 -0400

Is the pool of potential enlistees shrinking due to obesity, or the lack of motivation and dedication to serve in our military? Personally, I think it's the latter. Seems a majority of the current Gen Y and Z folks seriously lack the intestinal fortitude to serve our country.

Response by COL John McClellan made Jul 20 at 2017 5:34 PM

COL John McClellan — Thu, 20 Jul 2017 17:34:48 -0400

Here's my outside-the-box idea and solves a big problem in the NFL as well: institute weight limits at all levels of men's (boys) sports, including the NFL. 295 top end, and down from there, with limits set for groupings of positions. Force=Mass x Acceleration. No way to "slow down" sports, so the only way to reduce TBI is to reduce mass. (Look back at team ave. weights in the 70s...). Now - what does this have to do with obesity and military recruiting? Well, professional sports are a huge influence on young men. If the NFL led this, it would set a powerful example that would extend down to college, high school and Pop Warner. A high-profile partnership with them, the Surgeon General, Governors and publuc schools could be built that then also includes education vis-a-via nutrition, less sugar, less soda, less junk food, etc. etc. More fit, less sit!!

Response by LTC Jason Strickland made Jan 20 at 2018 11:36 AM

LTC Jason Strickland — Sat, 20 Jan 2018 11:36:34 -0500

Now it seems potential recruits from southern states are more at risk...
http://www.moaa.org/Content/Publications-and-Media/News-Articles/2018-News-Articles/Army-Recruits-From-These-States-Are-More-Likely-To-Be-Unfit,-Get-Injured.aspx

404 - File or directory not found.

Response by 1SG Rob Smith made Oct 11 at 2018 5:20 PM

1SG Rob Smith — Thu, 11 Oct 2018 17:20:52 -0400

Back in my day. Run the shit out of them.

Response by Andrew Wilhite made Oct 11 at 2018 8:37 PM

Andrew Wilhite — Thu, 11 Oct 2018 20:37:37 -0400

I don't think anyone should be turned away due to obesity. It's rare that anyone cares enough about themselves or their country to enlist. I myself have been trying to enlist for over a year due to a very minor criminal record and having to get hand and knuckle tattoos removed. It's hard enough to get people to even consider joining up. All lot of guys today are completely against the military and what they do. If they want to enlist, let then enlist. Who cares if they're overweight. Sign them up anyway and let BCT take care of it.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 11 at 2018 8:53 PM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 11 Oct 2018 20:53:11 -0400

There is nothing that the military should do. If someone wants to serve in the military they will take the initiative and lose the weight. I lost over 30 lbs in 2 months so i could join the army. We need people that are strong both physically and mentally and are willing to put their team before themselves.

Response by 1LT Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 12 at 2018 1:58 PM

1LT Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 12 Oct 2018 13:58:20 -0400

No height and weight measurements if you get a 270 in the APFT .

Boom solved!

Response by SGT Thomas Harkins made Oct 12 at 2018 2:07 PM

SGT Thomas Harkins — Fri, 12 Oct 2018 14:07:36 -0400

I would say do away with tape at meps do at end of basic if they don’t make it they pay Uncle Sam back. I lost 45 pounds when I went to basic. Some of these people don’t know what they are wanting to do.

Response by SSgt Larry Atkinson made Oct 12 at 2018 5:52 PM

SSgt Larry Atkinson — Fri, 12 Oct 2018 17:52:30 -0400

Do away with the early retirements and service limitations. Keep some of the Trained people we already have.

Response by SFC Tony Echevarria made Oct 13 at 2018 1:32 AM

SFC Tony Echevarria — Sat, 13 Oct 2018 01:32:57 -0400

The problem is with our schools and overweight youth. Schools need to teach proper diet and the importance of a personal fitness program. A daily physical fitness program as part of the school day would help.

Response by SPC Rick LaBonte made Oct 13 at 2018 6:56 AM

SPC Rick LaBonte — Sat, 13 Oct 2018 06:56:03 -0400

I was overweight before I went in, dropped 30 lbs in a month and gained muscle not hard, start cutting wood, lay off the pop and snacks

Response by SPC Jared Lewis made Oct 13 at 2018 2:44 PM

SPC Jared Lewis — Sat, 13 Oct 2018 14:44:37 -0400

We don't need to change anything, the civilians need to change the way they eat and raise there children. As well as to stop subsidizing crops, since that is an attribute to obesity.

Response by PO1 Michael Bruner made Oct 14 at 2018 6:29 PM

PO1 Michael Bruner — Sun, 14 Oct 2018 18:29:23 -0400

There's not really anything you can do until people stop living sedentary lifestyles and stop eating alotta processed crap.

Response by SFC C Bradshaw made Oct 14 at 2018 7:14 PM

SFC C Bradshaw — Sun, 14 Oct 2018 19:14:30 -0400

I think the height/weight standards are very restrictive so I don’t agree with that table with that being said the BMI is right on point because it addresses what’s HEALTHY. I join the Army at 200 pounds, for my age and height the standard was 185 but my BMI never exceeded 20% during my twenty years of service and I never meet the height/weight standards

Response by CW5 Curt Grover made Oct 14 at 2018 7:23 PM

CW5 Curt Grover — Sun, 14 Oct 2018 19:23:35 -0400

PT....... individual Responsibility! Spent my career (30 years) in Special Operations, 82ND Airborne. Never, ever saw a problem. It's Leadership 101. Ever seen a Fat Boy in Ranger School? Me either

Response by SSgt Mike Watson made Oct 14 at 2018 7:27 PM

SSgt Mike Watson — Sun, 14 Oct 2018 19:27:32 -0400

If people want to serve enough they can lose weight. I think the healthy economy has something to do with a shortage of volunteers. I joined the Army out of high school because I felt it was my patriotic duty. Later I joined the Air Force simply because I couldn't find a decent job.

Response by MAJ Mark Anderson made Oct 14 at 2018 9:39 PM

MAJ Mark Anderson — Sun, 14 Oct 2018 21:39:08 -0400

When I used to train newly commissioned officers the dining facilities had too much fried food and did not do a good job on nutrition. There are often food deserts just off post - I personally have not eaten at a McDonalds nor Taco Bell in many a year. I am insulin resistant and unable to serve since my transfer to the retired reserve in 1998. That said I really watch my food (as does my spouse).

Response by HA Jace Gallagher made Oct 15 at 2018 2:22 AM

HA Jace Gallagher — Mon, 15 Oct 2018 02:22:45 -0400

Nothing. If a person can't take the initiative for their own health then they will become a liability to the military down the road. I'd rather have 10 service members who are disciplined to do whatever it takes over 10,000 lazy ones

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 15 at 2018 5:19 AM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 15 Oct 2018 05:19:25 -0400

I was in phenomenal shape before BCT. Personal trainer 3 years prior, picked up CrossFit as my main source of exercise. Weighed 175 with about 10% bf. The Army whittled me down to about 165 during my "stay" at Ft. Jackson. Came out faster, leaner, and weaker. Took about a full year to get my strength numbers back geez. Still score high on the PT test even though I'm in the Reserves. I think people are just lazy. My parents encouraged me to eat healthy and play sports, but it was me that wanted to be in the best shape I could be. If it was easy, everyone would do it.

Response by PO1 Tim Dawson made Oct 15 at 2018 8:48 AM

PO1 Tim Dawson — Mon, 15 Oct 2018 08:48:01 -0400

I do want to say that in the case of the Navy, the Navy has to commit to the sailors and make it a part of service and not just something they do on there own time

Response by CPT Lawrence Cable made Oct 15 at 2018 9:22 AM

CPT Lawrence Cable — Mon, 15 Oct 2018 09:22:43 -0400

As a serious suggestion, offer and/or require a pre basic version of BSEP for PT/weight. I think we had a remedial PT program for those that didn't score in a certain range, who were then recycled into the first class after completion of the program, just add the overweight. I certainly went in over my allowed 179 lbs., but Infantry OSUT tends to burn the weight off pretty quick.
I do understand the difference between grossly obese and being over weight. But why loss a potentially good soldier because he hits MEPS 10 lbs over his limit?

Response by PO2 James Miller made Oct 15 at 2018 1:25 PM

PO2 James Miller — Mon, 15 Oct 2018 13:25:45 -0400

My son is currently in Navy boot camp. His company started with 104 recruits and had only 82 at the end of the 3rd week. These losses were mostly due to failures of the navy PRT (physical readiness test)

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 15 at 2018 2:48 PM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 15 Oct 2018 14:48:49 -0400

Either lengthen basic training to give recruits more pt time to lose the weight or create a special bct program for those that are somewhat overweight but within an allowable standard that has heavy focus on pt and diet.

Response by A1C Leland Kowal made Oct 15 at 2018 4:54 PM

A1C Leland Kowal — Mon, 15 Oct 2018 16:54:00 -0400

I somewhat agree with the sergeant... those who want to join will lose the weight But having a comprehensive boot camp isn’t such a bad idea... you go in and focus solely on PT, and if you make a condition like creating a $500 course with a $500 completion bonus only those who drop out will pay

Response by PV2 Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 15 at 2018 8:51 PM

PV2 Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 15 Oct 2018 20:51:27 -0400

Absolutely not, I had to lose over 40 pounds to make weight at meps , so their is no excuse for being overweight

Response by PO2 William Roderick made Oct 16 at 2018 6:14 AM

PO2 William Roderick — Tue, 16 Oct 2018 06:14:46 -0400

Back in the 60s they took overweight people and took the weight off in boot camp.

Response by SSG Julian Nicholson made Oct 16 at 2018 9:18 AM

SSG Julian Nicholson — Tue, 16 Oct 2018 09:18:57 -0400

We won’t need as many troops if we stop being the worlds go to military. Our military exists to protect our freedom. I’m not sure when our way of life came into the picture, but our way of life should be Freedom. It shouldn’t be about cheaper oil, crap products from around the world or anything other than Freedom. If we lower standards to maintain a military at a size we simply don’t need them we risk everything. We don’t need to have American troops in over 130 countries.

Response by CSM Andrew Perrault made Oct 16 at 2018 3:31 PM

CSM Andrew Perrault — Tue, 16 Oct 2018 15:31:42 -0400

All of this fitness starts at home, healthy eating habits, regular excersice be at school (gym, sports or both) and then the individual has to have some willingness to not be a fat boy/girl. Get outside vs inside behind a phone, computer or TV

Response by MSG Barry Kerby made Oct 16 at 2018 7:39 PM

MSG Barry Kerby — Tue, 16 Oct 2018 19:39:35 -0400

The answer partially lies within the question. Obesity is a condition of extreme fat. Overweight is not. Is a defensive lineman who is 6'4" and 310 obese? Surely there are issues at hand, but the ability to perform and execute the mission are paramount.

Response by LTC Jason Strickland made Oct 17 at 2018 8:19 AM

LTC Jason Strickland — Wed, 17 Oct 2018 08:19:27 -0400

The trend continues. Three years later, Army Times posted this article: https://www.armytimes.com/news/your-army/2018/10/10/americas-obesity-is-threatening-national-security-according-to-this-study/#.W8cmK2GvSBA.twitter

America’s obesity is threatening national security, according to this study

The rise in American obesity is making it harder for the Army to find healthy, qualified soldiers and keep them that way.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 18 at 2018 1:27 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 18 Oct 2018 01:27:15 -0400

I would not want to see standards for new recruits relaxed just to increase the size of the pool. That would be a disaster waiting to happen, IMHO.

Response by CSM Andrew Perrault made Oct 18 at 2018 5:55 AM

CSM Andrew Perrault — Thu, 18 Oct 2018 05:55:43 -0400

Being in the military is serious business, if you can't perform under combat conditions then you're a liability and you could possible get killed or get others killed. When you go to combat it's a come as you are situation...no time to lose weight. Much easier to maintain fitness than get in shape. If you can't hack it pack it. Need to make basic TOUGH to much political correct BS going on get in their faces, push them, this isn't the boy scouts.........

Response by PO3 John Wagner made Oct 21 at 2018 7:27 PM

PO3 John Wagner — Sun, 21 Oct 2018 19:27:13 -0400

Shrinking due to obesity? ...... ???... Sounds like a case of government intelligence to me.

Response by PO3 Matt Vandesteeg made Oct 30 at 2018 8:14 PM

PO3 Matt Vandesteeg — Tue, 30 Oct 2018 20:14:04 -0400

I have talked about this before on other forums, You could start with a weight waiver if it is with in a different set of reg's for this situation, But I believe that each branch needs to extend their boot camp by 1 month, that last month is no more then P.T., nutrition/health classes and real life (branch specific) training or familiarization with every day tasks, items that they would normally become familiar with over time when they report to their duty station, this way they can hit the ground running.

Response by SPC Edward Slagle made Oct 31 at 2018 12:40 PM

SPC Edward Slagle — Wed, 31 Oct 2018 12:40:43 -0400

How about a mandatory two year enlistment that would be served within US boarders (No over seas deployment) They can attend collage while learning discipline and respect! Things they don't learn at home or during college these days ... At the end of two years they can either continue on with a military career or college ...

Response by Capt Hansel Bumgarner made Nov 1 at 2018 9:34 PM

Capt Hansel Bumgarner — Thu, 01 Nov 2018 21:34:03 -0400

What irony. At the beginning of WW2, many were initially rejected for service as they were too scrawny. Audie Murphy was turned down by the Marines and Navy before being accepted by the Army. Like my father and an uncle, he lied about his age to join.

Response by TSgt Dan Decker made Nov 4 at 2018 10:59 AM

TSgt Dan Decker — Sun, 04 Nov 2018 10:59:02 -0500

We might have to provisionally enlist them, contingent on their losing the weight in special fitness camps.

Response by TSgt Dan Decker made Nov 4 at 2018 11:00 AM

TSgt Dan Decker — Sun, 04 Nov 2018 11:00:16 -0500

We may need to provisionally enlist them contingent on their successful weight loss in special fitness camps.

Response by 1LT Luke Flowers made Nov 4 at 2018 2:32 PM

1LT Luke Flowers — Sun, 04 Nov 2018 14:32:37 -0500

Too much to explain in this post but I could fix this within one year and make it so it is not a problem anymore.

Response by TSgt Mike Rumage made Nov 8 at 2018 2:39 PM

TSgt Mike Rumage — Thu, 08 Nov 2018 14:39:02 -0500

This should remind us that if we are parents, this is something to be aware of. Be knowledgeable about what your family is eating, how active everyone is. Now, outside your family, if you run in the neighborhood and notice a younger person trying to be fit-maybe offer to be their running mate. We are all taxpayers, and we all pay something if our population keeps going in this direction.

Response by PO1 Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 11 at 2018 7:18 PM

PO1 Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 11 Nov 2018 19:18:09 -0500

Today young not all but most are inactive an have bad eating habits most schools dont have gym class anymore, most of the older generation played outside all day and were very active

Response by SGT Richard H. made Nov 16 at 2018 2:34 PM

SGT Richard H. — Fri, 16 Nov 2018 14:34:44 -0500

Only suggestion I can think of is to get our kids off the damn XBox and introduce them to that magical thing called "outdoors"

Response by MSG William Weatherell made Dec 12 at 2018 2:14 PM

MSG William Weatherell — Wed, 12 Dec 2018 14:14:22 -0500

:Ltc Strickland, 14+ yrs with USAREC circa 1978-92 from on the block chasing HS grads cat 1-3A's to in service SORB duty with USAJFKSWC Ft Bragg I've always found the carrot stick, if you want what I got you got to do this. Motivate, recognize (Monthly, Qtrly) keeps your Dep pool semi filled Organize a PT platoon within the company, by RZ , zip code and get your butt out of your office once,twice a week should do. HS's will usually let you use the track or local gym, park etc will do. Then put it on the calendar/mandex then get your platoon in one spot and go do PT. Lord knows some of our recruiters could use some PT prep or call it there PT test and run with the idea over a few months and eval if it works, working, needs tweeking etc. Retired Wm Weatherell

Response by SSG Robert Cole made Dec 30 at 2019 9:54 PM

SSG Robert Cole — Mon, 30 Dec 2019 21:54:32 -0500

Yeah.. take the fork out of their mouths and get their asses off the couch and do something. Walk with a purpose, get motivated... blah blah blah.. stop eating shit for food. Kick yourself in the ass and be a man.. Or is that a He/She today? Stop playing into peoples whinneyness.. is that a word? And hold them accountable to their commitment. If not.. don't waist your time on them. Your better off without them. Life sucks.. so make some lemon aide out of it. Why? Because there is no Google Ap for cracking a book, looking in the mirror and realizing your a fat pig.