AN INVESTIGATION OF THE INFLUENCE OF PHYSICAL TRAINING ON PHYSICAL FITNESS OF PERSONNEL IN THE GHANA ARMED FORCES

ABSTRACT This study investigated the influence of physical training on initial entry personnel of the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF). A quantitative and qualitative research approach was used for the study. The research technique used was the mixed methods. The significance of the study was that it would help to create the awareness about the fitness levels of personnel of the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) for decisions to be taken by policy makers. Four research questions were raised. The instrument used was a structured questionnaire and six (6) items interview questions. Data was analysed using descriptive statistics of frequency counts and percentage. The findings of the study revealed that majority of the respondents agreed that physical fitness was very important to them. They also agreed that they were aware that possessing good health related fitness is related to lower risk of illness and improved quality of life. The study further revealed that Initial Entry Trainees (IET) soldiers are fitter comparatively to other personnel of the GAF as their physical training regime in the academy ensures that they are very fit. Even though the personnel of the GAF were aware of the importance or benefits of physical training, only a few of them actually exercised regularly. The findings revealed that majority of the trainees or IET soldiers felt that the level of physical training was adequate whereas for the personnel of the GAF majority felt the physical training for personnel was inadequate but needed an improvement. These findings signify that the IET soldiers are indeed very fit when coming out of the Academy. The study further revealed that the resources available for trainees were strictly training programmes: drill sergeants/trainers, diet plans, physical training and fitness training equipment and grass fields. The current study also revealed that the fitness levels of female counterparts over 40 years was bad with about 50% of the respondents stating that they were not fit. For senior members and other ranks over 40 years a majority representing 70% stated that they were not fit or somewhat fit. A comparison of fitness levels of Initial Entry Trainee (IET) soldiers and other personnel of the GAF show that that the fitness levels of IET soldiers are not equal to the fitness levels of soldiers who have served 10 years or more with the IET soldier being more fit than the other soldiers. Some recommendations were that there is the need to emphasize the benefits of maintaining a continuous physical training programme for members of the GAF. There is the need for Trainees of the academy to be educated about the need for continuous physical training throughout the course of their career and not for it to be seen as a means to an end. Thus they would continually be motivated to exercise regularly leading to them maintaining fitness and them receiving improved health benefits. There is also the need to institute improved compulsory physical training for other staff of the GAF. They also need for them to be educated on the benefits of physical training so that they would not relapse into sedentary life styles as they age or progress in the profession. There is the need to replicate this study in military arms in Ghana. Also the necessary resources and equipment should be provided for personnel who are willing to adopt physical training programmes. Some form of motivation should be given to personnel of the GAF who are always involved in physical fitness training