A major survey to assess the level of physical fitness in the Defence Forces has started in the Curragh Training Camp. Between now and July 8th the fitness of a random sample of 650 of the 11,500 force members is to be examined using a variety of methods including running exercises and blood tests.
The survey is being conducted by six students from the Department of Physical Education and Sports Science of the University of Limerick, in conjunction with the Army School of Physical Culture.
It is hoped that the study will enable a review of the development of physical training in the forces since 1991 when the last major research of this kind was carried out.
Commissioned by the Director of Training, Col Shay Duffy, the survey is expected to highlight areas of fitness that need improvement and help in devising a new physical training programme.
Since 1992, all Defence Forces personnel have been required to pass an annual fitness test, the spokesman said. The final report of the latest physical fitness survey is expected to be published in October.