Physical Training Laboratory

Catalog description

This course is designed to guide students through an intentional physical fitness program. The course follows the ARMY Physical Fitness Training Program, but is open to any student. The design consists of a systematic increase in the intensity or duration of physical activities. Proper progression allows the body to positively adapt to the stresses of training. When intensity or duration is increased too rapidly, the student cannot adapt to the demands of training, and is unable to recover, leading to overtraining and possible injury. The following are gradually increased to produce the desired physiological effect: - Intensity (resistance and pace). - Exercise volume (number of sets and repetitions). - Duration (time). In the toughening phase, the duration of the ability group runs (AGRs) progress from 10 minutes to 30 minutes gradually over the training cycle. The pace also gradually increases over time. For example, in the sustaining phase during the conduct of CLs and speed running, Soldiers progress from wearing the individual physical fitness uniform (IPFU) to Army combat uniforms (ACUs), boots, advanced combat helmet (ACH), and improved outer tactical vest (IOTV). Progression in strength is achieved by increasing one or more of the following for each exercise when using strength training equipment. - Resistance (weight). - Number of sets. - Number of repetitions. Adhering to the scheduled intensity and duration prevents the Soldier from progressing too fast. How fast the Soldier should progress also depends on how regularly he performs challenging activities and how much rest and recovery time he gets. PRT time is a valuable resource, especially during the toughening phase. Every PRT session develops strength, endurance, and mobility. To ensure improvement, PRT sessions in IMT occur 5 or 6 times a week and last 45 to 60 minutes. PRT sessions in the sustaining phase last 60 minutes or more and occur 4 to 5 times a week. If PRT cannot be conducted first thing in the morning, it should be conducted at some other time during the duty day. Training sessions should be sequenced to ensure adequate recovery.