Physical fitness of students based on a test used to assess the physical fitness of soldiers of the National Reserve Forces

Background and Study Aim.  The purpose of this study was to analyze the physical fitness of students based on a test used to assess the physical fitness of soldiers of the National Reserve Forces. Material and methods. The study included 30 students majoring in Physical Education, specializing in Physical Education in the Uniformed Services. The average age of the subjects was 23.53 years, where the youngest subject was 21.92 years old and the oldest was 28.67 years old (SD = 1.513). The National Reserve Forces (NSR – abbreviation using in Polish language) physical fitness test was used to assess the level of physical fitness of professional soldiers. Students completed a proprietary research questionnaire to investigate the level and type of additional physical activity of the subjects, their future career plans related to the uniformed services, and their level of satisfaction with their performance on the fitness tests. Results. It was shown that students who rated their level of preparation for uniformed service and satisfaction with their performance higher scored better on the NSR test. It was proven, equally, that students having a higher weekly volume of additional physical activity obtain higher scores in the fitness test. In addition, it has been demonstrated that better results in the fitness test are achieved by students who engage in physical activity at the level of active athletes. Conclusions. The recommendation to introduce classes similar to sports training under battlefield conditions into schools and universities preparing future uniformed officers is justified. This would give a simultaneous improvement in physical fitness along with an increase in the level of self-efficacy for combat operations. Those wishing to enter the selection process for uniformed formations should practice regular physical activity, preferably at an intensity and volume close to the competitive level. This significantly affects the result achieved in the fitness test.