Alternating Attention and Physical Fitness in Relation to the Level of Combat Training

Abstract

The level of combat training (CT) of the future commander-leader is of critical importance to the armed forces in national defense. This study aimed to search for the relationship between the level of alternating attention, physical fitness and shooting accuracy (SA), and academic achievements in practical military subjects (PMS). The study group consisted of 137 cadets of the Military University of Land Forces. The measure of alternating attention in the study was the Color Trails Test results. Motor components were assessed by measuring hand static strength, endurance run, and time of a speed and agility run. SA and PMS were taken as measures of cadets’ CT. Significantly higher PMS were associated with higher levels of strength and better endurance in cadets. The physical fitness of the cadets did not significantly affect the cadets’ SA. The main result of the study is the revelation of the level of alternating attention as a strong determinant of cadets’ SA. The authors suggest that the main emphasis should be put on the physical preparation of a modern soldier, focused on the development of strength and endurance skills. It is also reasonable to introduce cognitive stimulation exercises to shooting training.