The health and physical readiness of Army reservists: a current review of the literature and significant research questions.
Individual soldier combat readiness through enhanced physical fitness is a major emphasis in the United States military today. Unfortunately, the prevalence of cigarette smoking, alcohol abuse, and other poor health practices continues to be reported at higher rates for active duty military personnel than for civilian populations. There is a dearth of research about health and fitness in the Army Reserve. Changing trends point toward more rapid mobilization of reservists for peacekeeping and combat missions throughout the world; however, it is important to remember that the Army Reserve is unique in its blending of both military and civilian occupational environments. The purpose of this paper is to review the current literature regarding Army Reserve health behaviors and physical readiness. Examples of significant future research questions are provided. More studies are needed to assess both individual motivational activities and organizational values that enhance health-promoting efforts. Interventions can then be designed to eliminate impediments to health and endorse specific organizational values and interpersonal skills that increase healthy behaviors.
Wynd
C A
CA
Nursing Services, 914th Combat Support Hospital, Columbus, OH.
Ryan-Wenger
N A
NA
D000437:Alcoholism / Q000453:epidemiology; D015438:Health Behavior; D006293:Health Promotion; D006304:Health Status; D006801:Humans; D008019:Life Style; D008889:Military Personnel / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D010809:Physical Fitness; D015995:Prevalence; D012907:Smoking / Q000453:epidemiology; D014481:United States / Q000453:epidemiology; D014857:Warfare