The Army Ten-Miler is a popular road race organized by the U.S. Army Military District of Washington (MDW). It’s held annually in Washington, D.C., typically during October.
Here are some critical details about this event:
- Purpose: The primary goal is to promote fitness and esprit de corps within the military community while connecting with local civilians.
- Course: Participants run a scenic 10-mile route that winds through America’s capital, offering views of iconic landmarks like the Lincoln Memorial, Korean War Veterans Memorial, and U.S. Capitol Building.
- Participants: While it primarily attracts active duty soldiers from all branches, reserve/guard members, veterans, family members & general public can also participate!
- Team Competition: Besides individual categories, there are team competitions, where squads comprising uniformed personnel compete against each other, representing their respective service branch or units.
In addition to promoting physical health and camaraderie among participants, proceeds from the race go towards supporting various Morale, Welfare, and Recreation (MWR) programs – which offer services to improve the quality of life for army personnel & their families.
But remember – regardless of whether you’re an experienced runner or just starting, participating in events like these provides a unique opportunity to embrace healthier lifestyle choices while building bonds across diverse communities.
Does The Army Promote Fitness Like Running?
Absolutely! The U.S. Army promotes physical fitness as a crucial part of military readiness, and running is an integral component of their training programs.
Running in Basic Training:
In basic training, recruits undergo rigorous physical conditioning that includes regular runs. These range from shorter sprint intervals to longer distance jogs aimed at building endurance & improving cardiovascular health.
Army Physical Fitness Test (APFT):
The APFT traditionally included a 2-mile run test and two-minute push-up and sit-up events. Soldiers’ performance on these exercises would directly impact their promotion points under the Enlisted Promotion Point System.
New Army Combat Fitness Test (ACFT):
The Army has recently transitioned towards ACFT, which comprises six events – including a 2-mile timed run intended to measure aerobic endurance more effectively than previous standards did.
Moreover, besides mandatory regimented workouts, soldiers are encouraged to maintain active lifestyles outside duty hours, too – this could involve recreational activities like team sports or solo endeavors such as long-distance running!
However, while running is highly beneficial for maintaining optimal fitness levels, it should be done responsibly! Start slow, gradually increase your pace & distance, and ensure you wear appropriate gear to avoid any injuries during exercise routines.