The Commandant of the Marine Corps ordered be development of the CFT, USMC Combat Fitness Test. USMC units and individual Marines would be tested in order to better measure the functional elements of combat fitness.   His guidance further directed that the CFT consist of events that more closely replicate the physical demands of combat.  The Commandant’s intent was clear “Associate Combat Fitness with Combat Functions”.

                            

Combat in Iraq and Afghanistan plainly identified the requirement to focus physical training on the demands on combat.  General Conway further explained Marine Corps Order 6100.13 by stating "Recognizing that Marines are 'warrior athletes,' our fitness program was modified to reflect the same collaboration of effort found at the collegiate and professional sports level." The CFT allows the USMC as a whole, and Marines in particular, to better prepare for and test combat fitness.  

Physical Fitness is an often overlooked, but essential element of Marine Corps Leadership.  Every Marine Corps leader is responsible to ensure that his or her Marines are physically capable of performing in combat.   Each leader must also set the example of physical fitness for their Marines. 

Ensuring your Marines are mentally and physically prepared to perform their mission in combat is an inherent leadership responsibility.  The CFT and CFT type training allows the USMC to better prepare Marines for the physical strain of combat by giving leaders a measurable and scored event. Leaders can evaluate and assess the physical capacity of each individual Marine as well as their unit as a whole.  

CFT USMC

The benefits of exercise and fitness have been well documented.  By failing to ensure you are physically fit, you are hurting yourself and ultimately your unit.   You may be the most technically proficient leader in your outfit, but if you are not physically ready for the demands of your job when it counts, who will your Marines look to when you’re not there because you failed to prepare?

Not convinced?  Watch the two videos of Marine Officer Brian Chontosh talking about the direct benefits he and his Marines experienced called CrossFit for Combat .