The Influence of Strength and Power Training on the Performance of U.S. Marines

Author

Kristopher J. Klein, Concordia University, St. PaulFollow

Date of Award

Spring 4-21-2024

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science in Exercise Science

Department

Kinesiology

Abstract

U.S. Marine Infantry conducts a job that requires strength, speed, and endurance; however military fitness training relies mainly on the endurance aspect. With numerous studies showing the correlation between an endurance mainstay within military organizations, and musculoskeletal and joint overuse injuries, this study seeks to understand the performance value in training the anaerobic energy systems. Specifically, we aim to determine whether strength and power training may be more beneficial to the tactical athlete than traditional training. Over a period of 12 weeks, 150 members of the U.S. Marine Infantry will participate in training five days a week with three days focused on strength and power and two days focused on active recovery/conditioning. Marine Corps fitness testing consisting of the Physical Fitness test and Combat Fitness Test will be conducted during the final week. Significant potential outcomes involve increased strength and power, an increase in anaerobic capacity, improved score on two Marine Corps physical performance tests, and improved movement under an external load. The physical performance tests are directly related to both job performance and career progression, while movement under an external load is directly related to combat related job and task performance.

Recommended Citation