Statistical Analysis of Youth Physical Fitness as an Important Factor for the Defence of the Czech Republic

Abstract

Physical fitness is an important part of military service and significantly affects the successful performance of combat tasks. The aim of the study is to determine the current state of physical fitness of adolescents so that the recruitment and training system of the Czech Army is prepared for the expectations of future participants and can be updated and supplemented with new elements.

                For this purpose, physical fitness testing of 1,135 (699 males and 436 females) Czech secondary school students aged 15-18 was carried out in the period 2021-2023. The testing was conducted in the area of strength and endurance disciplines in 16 different secondary schools. The percentage of total body fat in relation to body weight was measured as an indicator of the morphological component of physical fitness. Respondents were categorically rated according to their physical performance and the amount of total body fat. The age and gender of the respondent were considered. The method and form of assessment was designed in accordance with European standards. The findings will be used to develop adequate recruitment conditions, including the content and limits of relevant tests, and to modernize the overall recruitment policy.