Analysis of Physical Training Program for Cadets in Us Military Academy West Point

Abstract

The article offers the analysis of the physical training Program for cadets in the US Military Academy West Point. Recently, Ukraine gained access to the best military experience of NATO. An important factor in strengthening the combat potential of the army is the future officers’ physical training. The analysis of the physical training Program for cadets in the US Military Academy West Point will allow the gradual implementation of NATO standards in higher military education in Ukraine. West Point accepts boys and girls, U.S. citizens, ages 17-22. Applicants are recommended to pass the camp Summer Leaders Experience. The governing body that organizes, implements and controls the entire process of physical education is the Department of Physical Education. The guiding document for the entire process of physical education is the physical training Program. The strategic goals laid down in the physical training Program are: cadet skills, teaching staff responsibilities, military skills, program implementation. The physical training Program consists of three sections: the physical education curriculum or "training course"; physical fitness testing; and participation in sports competitions. The first section in the Program has three main courses for cadets’ working: basic motor activities; basic fitness; and daily physical activity. The second section in the Program is regular physical fitness testing, it provides cadets the opportunity to demonstrate personal physical perfection and emphasizes the importance of physical fitness for a military profession. The third section in the Program is participation in competitions, it encourages each cadet during every semester to participate in competitions according to their own abilities and interests: team, club, Inter-academic. The physical education curriculum has four levels for cadets’ training. The transition to a new level is allowed only if a cadet meets all the standards from the previous level. The fourth level provides the development of self-confidence that gives cadets the opportunity to meet the requirements of the Academy and the army in physical training in the future. The third level ensures cadets’ development of basic competence in movement and water skills. The second level designs a final combat experience that is closely related to the Army combat program in the modern army. The first level provides the culmination in one of many cycles in cadet’s physical activity that is cadet’s physical movement throughout life.