Keeping Soldiers fit to fight has always been a challenge for Army leaders, but in recent years, it has become significantly more difficult. The newest generation of recruits is not accustomed to physical activity, and has little experience with personal accountability or overcoming adversity. War veterans are reluctant to seek help with physical and mental battle wounds, striving instead to maintain a tough façade by masking symptoms and avoiding assessment tools. Many first line leaders, although proficient on the battlefield, have no experience leading in the garrison environment, which is where the fitness cycle begins and ends. Considering the wide array of obstacles, achieving overall unit Soldier readiness may seem to be a daunting task, but there is a viable strategy. Leaders keep Soldiers fit to fight by cultivating a culture of comprehensive fitness, built on a foundation of training, accountability, and continuous assessment. ...Despite the challenges faced by younger Soldiers, wounded warriors, and battlefield leaders, they all have one thing in common. They have a strong desire to win. Once Soldiers begin to see the fruits of their labor, and they believe what they are doing is meaningful and worthwhile they will give 110 percent. Further, Soldiers will always rise to the level of their leaders' expectation, so setting the bar high is important. Cultivating a culture of comprehensive fitness, built on a foundation of training, accountability, and continuous assessment is how Leaders keep Soldiers fit to fight.

Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited.