Investigating Impacts of Music and Cadence on Military Physical Training Test Performance
Date of Award
Spring 3-31-2025
Document Type
Dissertation
Degree Name
Doctor of Kinesiology (EdD)
Department
Kinesiology
First Advisor
Stephen Ross
Second Advisor
Matthew Buns
Third Advisor
Angelia Winkler
Abstract
This dissertation investigates the impacts on the use of music and cadence on military physical training test (PTT) pass/fail outcomes. The study looks at the use of auditory stimuli, of music and military cadence, both which allowed for type choice in the participant when possible and its influence on overall pass and fail rates in military testing contexts. The problem focuses on improving outcomes in military personnel pass rates while performing physical training tests without physical intervention. A mixed-methods approach of research was used to combine quantitative analysis of PTT, with qualitative assessment of the participant’s subjective experiences of the test while using the randomly assigned interventions. These findings suggest that while music and cadence may not directly affect measurable physical outcomes, they play a pivotal role in improving participants' psychological readiness, which could enhance military physical training outcomes. These findings should relieve any concern of those who question if the music or cadence use might unfairly give a participant an advantage if not physically prepared for their (PTT). This study concludes with discussions for improving physical training test experiences, recommendations for future research, and potential applications for use in non-military populations in the future.