RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN 1.5-MILE RUN TIME, INJURY RISK AND TRAINING OUTCOME IN BRITISH ARMY RECRUITS

Abstract

A ‘best effort’ 1.5-mile run time, as a surrogate measure of aerobic fitness, is associated with musculoskeletal injury (MSI) risk in military recruits. The aim of this study was to determine the relationship between 1.5-mile run times, injury risk and outcome from Phase 1 (initial) and Phase 2 (trade) training in British Army recruits. The reason for this study was to help identify those at risk of MSI. This in turn will assist in determining a 1.5-mile run standard and inform the introduction of prevention methods. This should allow a reduction in medical attrition rates and costly medical interventions. Best effort 1.5-mile times from week 1 of intial training and MSI reported during training were retrieved for 3,446 male recruits. Run times were examined against injury occurrence and training outcomes using a Pearson’s correlation and Chi Square analysis. The 1.5-mile run was not able to predict injury risk but was however, significantly linked with injury occurrence and training outcomes. The results showered slower 1.5-mile run times were significantly and positively correlated with higher injury occurrence (χ2 39.308 p<0.001), poorer Phase 1 success through early discharge and failed completion of training (χ2 99.474a p<0.001), and reduced Phase 2 success through non-completion with poor discharge outcomes (medical discharge, discharge as of right) (χ2 99.474a p<0.001). Overall the 1.5-mile run can be used to determine a future standard to reduce injury occurrence and improve training success.