Effects of sit-up training versus core stabilization exercises on sit-up performance

Area of Science:

• Exercise physiology
• Military fitness

Background:

• Core stabilization exercise programs (CSEP) are not widely used in the US Army due to concerns about performance on the Army Physical Fitness Test.
• Sit-ups are a key component of the Army Physical Fitness Test.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine if CSEP, when substituted for sit-ups in unit physical training, negatively affects sit-up performance and passing rates on the Army Physical Fitness Test.

Main Methods:

• 2616 soldiers (18-35 years) were randomized into either a traditional exercise program (TEP) with sit-ups or a CSEP group.
• Training occurred 4 times per week for 12 weeks, with performance assessed at baseline and post-intervention.

Main Results:

• Both groups showed significant improvements in sit-up performance and overall fitness (P < 0.001).
• No significant differences in overall fitness scores or sit-up performance were observed between the CSEP and TEP groups.
• The CSEP group had a significantly higher increase in sit-up passing rates (5.6%) compared to the TEP group (3.9%) (P = 0.004).

Conclusions:

• CSEP does not detrimentally affect sit-up performance or overall fitness scores.
• Incorporating CSEP into Army physical training poses no risk to fitness test performance and may slightly improve sit-up pass rates.