The effect of basic training on aerobic capacity and body fat in New Zealand army recruits

Physical fitness levels were assessed in 50 males recruits at the beginning, the middle and the end of ten weeks basic army training. Aerobic capacity was predicted indirectly from a timed 2.4 km run. Body fat levels were estimated from three skinfold measurements. Estimated VO2 max increased from 48.7 ml.kg-1 min-1 to 56.6 ml.kg-1 min-1, ie, 16.2 percent rise. Accompanying this increase was a decline in percent body fat from 12.4 percent to 10.2 percent, with no change in total body weight. It was concluded that the level of training intensity at 58 ml.kg-1 min-1, was effective in reducing body fat and increasing aerobic capacity.