Intelligence and Physical Fitness as Predictors of Success in Early Infantry Training

Abstract

The purpose of this research was to assess how well success in early combat training was predicted by scores on a test of general intelligence (the General Technical composite of the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery) and three measures of physical fitness (pushups, situps, and run time). Age and education were also considered as predictors. The criterion was performance on the test given at the end of training, and the subjects were 259 trainees in entry-level infantry training. Analysis indicated that intelligence test scores and run time significantly predicted success, each adding to the prediction provided by the other. The other variables did not appear to be useful predictors of success.