Are You Fit Enough for the Defence Force?
16 Jun 2017 1:01 PM – Specialist Sportscare WA
Physical fitness is a key part of your assessment for entry into the Australian Defence Force. Many ADF roles involve outdoor activity, whether in the permanent or reserve forces, and a reasonable level of fitness is necessary. Specific strength and fitness requirements vary according to the role, but below we list some of the requirements you’ll need to consider if you’re planning a career in the Army, Navy or Air Force.
Push Ups
A push-up assessment forms part of the basic entry procedure for the ADF. The push-ups must be completed in the ‘military style’ where only toes and hands are in contact with the ground, and the back is kept straight at all times. The total amount of push ups you need to complete in the allocated time depends on your gender and defence sector but it varies between 10 to 15 for males under 55 and 4 to 8 for females.
Sit Ups
In sit ups, the feet are held anchored to the ground with the hands running along the top of the leg. One movement is counted when the wrist reaches the kneecap. Repetitions will be completed immediately after the push-up section and between 20 and 45 will be required depending on the role you are applying for.
Operational Fitness
As well as strength, entry into the defence force requires endurance, coordination and core fitness. This will be assessed through marching with a weighted pack and keeping up with drill movements. Walking, running and swimming are great exercises to maintain core strength and achieve the level of endurance you’ll need to pass defence training.
Health
Before acceptance into the ADF, you’ll need to have your overall health tested to make sure you are free of any infections or undiagnosed conditions. A dental check will be necessary in addition to vision and hearing tests. In addition to passing these health checks, the ADF has a required range for Body Mass Index to make sure you remain healthy and avoid injury during training.
Professional Screening
If you’re hoping to enlist in any part of the ADF, we recommend having a professional screening in advance to maximise your chances of success. Training for assessment can involve a lot of time and hard work, so make sure none of your effort goes to waste by having your overall health checked and verified by a practitioner who specialises in defence force screening.
To book a defence force screening with Specialist Sportscare W.A., call us now on (08) 9272 8222 or contact us via our website.
