Through the process of critical review, the purpose of this monograph is to analyze the history of physical readiness training and assessment in the United States Army. Although the evolution of Army physical readiness training (PRT) doctrine begins during the pre-Colonial period in America, in order to fully understand this evolutionary process we must first understand the development of military physical training in Europe and its role in shaping the philosophy and doctrine of US Army PRT. After a short review of the role of physical training in antiquity, the author reviews in depth the growth of military "gymnastics" in Europe, especially Prussia, during the 19th century and the pathways of this doctrine and training to the United States and the US Army. A full understanding of the foundations of European military gymnastics is crucial to understanding the evolution of PRT in the US Army since European military gymnastics served as the touchstone for Army PRT. The books next explores the extrinsic and intrinsic forces that have shaped Army PRT doctrine since 1700 with particular attention to the influences of a changing economic, social, and political milieu and evolution of warfighter tactics and technology.

Historical influences on Army physical readiness training -- The naissance of Army physical readiness training in America -- The Koehler era -- World War I: the Princeton years -- World War II: a return to combat readiness -- The Cold War era: fomenting a national fitness policy -- Return to combat: focused physical readiness training -- Summary, analysis, and discussion -- Appendix A: chronological summary of significant activities for the US Army Soldier Physical Fitness Center -- Appendix B: chronological summary of publications for US Army physical fitness training and assessment.