Episode 2 - Train FOR the Test (ACFT)
Listen on SPOTIFY | Listen on APPLE PODCAST
Overview
“Don’t train for the test” CAN be decent advice for some warfighters some of the time but I’m more often in favor of training for the test, especially when it’s a decent test - Not to be confused with training WITH the test. This episode builds a case in favor of training to improve at the Army Combat Fitness Test.
Former Army Ranger and Special Operations Human Performance Coach, Nate Palin, offers a reality based approach to coaching the warfighter on how to shoot, move, and communicate more effectively on the front lines and the home front. I reconcile high performance ideals with an often volatile, uncertain, complex, and ambiguous reality faced by the warfighter - so you can focus your effort where it matters most.
Episode Topics
Job Simulation Test vs Fitness Test
Ranger Physical Assessment Test
Army Combat Fitness Test
Face validity vs twice removed from the job
APFT vs ACFT
Events - Pushup, Situp, 2-Mile Run, Deadlift, Standing Power Throw, Hand Release Pushup, Leg Tuck, Plank, Sprint Drag Carry
Components of Fitness Tested - Narrow vs well-rounded
A Case for Training WITH the Test
Familiarization
Confidence
Short window for improvement
A Case for Training FOR the Test
When you need something to train for - provides purpose: Inspiration, motivation, gauge of progress
When your programming knowledge is low - provides structure (ideal vs enough to move the needle)
When the assessed qualities align with physical job demands - enhancing assessed qualities = improving at the job
Assessed Qualities by Event
Deadlift - Grip, Lower Body Strength
Standing Power Throw - Total Body Power (Force and Velocity)
Hand Release Push-Up - Upper Body Pushing Endurance
Spring Drag Carry - Output & Capacity, Multidirectional Movement, Load Carriage, Change of Direction, Deceleration, Acceleration, etc.
Leg Tuck - Upper Body Pulling Strength, Core Strength
2-Mile Run - Capacity
More important than HOW you train is THAT you train.
