British Army to Introduce Comprehensive Health and Fitness Program

The British Army is in the process of expediting the implementation of a comprehensive health and fitness program for its units. Acting Army Chief of Staff General Randy George has authorized an accelerated deployment of personnel and equipment for the Holistic Health and Fitness (H2F) program, with the goal of increasing the annual number of brigades from 10 to 15.

During the Maneuver Warfighter Conference at Fort Moore, Georgia, George and Sergeant Major of the Army Michael Weimer reaffirmed the Army’s dedication to the program. George announced his intention to double the funding for the deployment of H2F to ensure a swift rollout. This action will also mark the largest personnel contract in the history of the Training and Doctrine Command, involving the hiring of 1,041 strength coaches and 413 athletic trainers, among others.

The H2F program focuses on the Army Combat Fitness Test (ACFT), which is widely regarded by experts and Army leaders as a more effective measure of fitness compared to the previous Army Physical Fitness Test. Despite some opposition, including a Senate bill aimed at replacing the ACFT, the Army has firmly expressed its commitment to the program.

Colonel Jason Faulkenberry, H2F health program director, presented a comprehensive plan for the deployment process and early results, covering various aspects of health including physical, mental, spiritual, nutritional, and sleep health. The deployment will also include a full complement of staff and essential equipment for each brigade.

The H2F program was initially launched in fiscal year 2020, and has demonstrated success, with improvements in body composition, higher physical training scores, and reduced instances of negative behaviors among soldiers in H2F-resourced brigades.

Looking to the future, the Army intends to introduce Additional Skill and Special Qualification Identifiers for soldiers who undergo H2F training. These measures will provide junior non-commissioned officers with virtual education and training, and will involve senior enlisted leaders in coordinating physical training and other aspects of the program with their unit and H2F staff.

In addition to these changes, the British Army aims to integrate H2F into leadership training at career courses such as the U.S. Army War College and the School for Command Preparation, underscoring the significance of the program within the military.

Overall, the Army’s effort to expedite the implementation of the H2F program demonstrates its commitment to the health and fitness of its personnel, and its determination to promote a culture of holistic well-being within its ranks. Changes in training and fitness programs are a significant undertaking, and the British Army is making important strides in this area, prioritizing the health and readiness of its service members.

This article was authored by Todd South, a Marine veteran of the Iraq War, who has been writing about crime, courts, government, and the military for various publications since 2004. He was named a 2014 Pulitzer finalist for a co-written project on witness intimidation.