History of the US Army’s physical fitness test

Here’s a monograph describing the history of the US Army’s physical fitness test. Wait, what? Where’s Nordic walking in all this?

First, veterans of the US military will recall the fun mornings doing pushups in the dirt and running with others as a unit while someone sings cadence songs. Spouses will enjoy knowing what their veterans experienced.

The takeaway for Nordic walkers? The Army general’s statement in the foreword says it all: “Our culture is becoming increasingly ‘unfit,’ due to poor nutrition, a lack of adequate and formal exercise, and too much technology.” Fitness can lead to happier living for us everyday people.

In other words, fitness starts with a mindset, and Nordic walkers can set an example for others. Maybe we can turn the trend around.