The U.S. Army Unveils Holistic Health and Fitness Secrets for All Americans
In a nation grappling with a concerning rise in mental and physical health challenges among its youth, the U.S. Army is stepping forward as an unexpected ally, offering accessible and actionable guidance for holistic well-being. With staggering statistics revealing that one in seven children between the ages of 10 and 19 experience a mental health disorder, and 17% of children aged 6 to 17 struggling with obesity, the need for reliable and effective health resources has never been greater. Recognizing the pervasive confusion created by a saturated market of self-proclaimed experts and fragmented fitness approaches, the Army is opening its doors to share its comprehensive and proven health and fitness system with the general public.
The Army’s long-standing association with physical fitness is undeniable. However, in its continuous pursuit of optimizing Soldier performance and readiness, the force has embraced cutting-edge research and industry best practices to cultivate a holistic approach to health. This approach culminated in the development of the Holistic Health and Fitness (H2F) system in 2020. Modeled after the rigorous training regimens of Special Forces and professional athletes, H2F represents a significant shift in the Army’s wellness culture, moving away from a standardized, one-size-fits-all model towards a personalized system that acknowledges the unique needs of each Soldier, unit, and mission. This individualized approach considers five key domains of readiness: physical, mental, sleep, nutrition, and spiritual.
The H2F system has yielded remarkable results within the Army. Units participating in the program have reported a significant decrease in musculoskeletal injuries, with Soldiers being 55% less likely to require additional care. Furthermore, they are 18% more likely to pass the demanding Army Combat Fitness Test (ACFT), 7.7% less likely to exhibit behavioral health issues, and 59% less likely to have substance abuse profiles. These compelling outcomes demonstrate the transformative power of the H2F system and its potential to improve the overall health and well-being of individuals.
Recognizing the broader applicability of the H2F system, the Army is now extending its reach beyond its ranks, sharing its expertise with the American public through a new video series titled "All You." This series, published on YouTube and accessible to everyone, aims to demystify holistic health by providing clear, practical, and effective wellness techniques directly from Army experts. "All You" seeks to eliminate the guesswork often associated with health improvement, offering guidance and tools that can be readily integrated into everyday life.
The "All You" series covers a diverse range of topics, each designed to address a specific aspect of holistic health. In the realm of physical fitness, the series advocates for functional workouts that minimize the risk of injury while maximizing strength development. Staff Sgt. Michael Matis, an H2F Academy Instructor, emphasizes the importance of starting at one’s current fitness level and gradually building consistent habits to achieve long-term fitness goals. He champions the incorporation of functional movements that mimic daily activities, enhancing performance and preventing injuries. One such adaptable exercise is the ruck march, a cornerstone of Army training. This involves long-distance walking or running with a weighted rucksack, improving strength, endurance, and cardiovascular health. Civilians can easily adapt this exercise by adding weights to a backpack and taking a brisk 20-minute walk outdoors or on a treadmill.
Mental resilience is another critical area addressed in "All You." 1st Lt. Brandan Wolfolk, an Army Occupational Therapist and yoga instructor, encourages viewers to proactively cultivate their mental resilience through practices such as yoga, meditation, and mindfulness. He highlights the benefits of intentional breathing as a quick and effective way to manage stress and anxiety, balance the nervous system, and boost energy levels. A simple breathing exercise involves inhaling for a count of four, holding the breath for a count of seven, and exhaling for a count of eight, helping to calm the mind and bring focus to the present moment.
Nutritional guidance is also a key component of the "All You" series. Capt. Jewel Ory, the 193rd H2F Nutrition Program Director, emphasizes the importance of simplifying nutrition by focusing on fundamental principles and individual needs. She advocates for consistency over perfection, suggesting that adhering to healthy nutrition habits 80% of the time yields better results than striving for unattainable, flawless habits that can only be maintained sporadically. To build a balanced plate, Ory recommends incorporating lean proteins such as fish, chicken, or turkey (baked, broiled, or grilled), whole grains for sustained energy (oats, brown rice, or quinoa), a variety of fruits and vegetables (emphasizing a wide range of colors), and low-fat dairy options (Greek yogurt or cottage cheese).
Recognizing the critical role of sleep in overall health, "All You" provides strategies for achieving optimal rest. Capt. Chris Enke, the 165th Infantry Brigade H2F Mental and Sleep Readiness Program Director, underscores the importance of prioritizing sleep, even when life becomes demanding. He introduces the acronym SLANT as a tool for evaluating sleep quality. While the breakdown of SLANT was not provided, the context emphasizes that sleep affects nutrition and gym efforts, along with the other pillars of health.
Finally, the series addresses the often-overlooked domain of spiritual readiness. Chaplain (Major) Scott Lovejoy, the 193rd H2F Spiritual Domain lead, encourages viewers to explore the importance of camaraderie and human connection. In an increasingly digital world, he advises making an effort to connect with others in meaningful ways, such as calling a friend instead of texting or inviting an acquaintance out for coffee. These small actions can combat feelings of loneliness and isolation, fostering a sense of belonging and purpose.
The "All You" video series, published bi-weekly beginning on April 11th, is designed to be accessible and beneficial to individuals at all stages of their holistic health journey. Whether someone is just starting to explore wellness, recovering from an injury, or actively pursuing their fitness goals, "All You" offers battle-tested training and practical advice that can empower them to achieve their full potential. The series is available on the GoArmy YouTube channel, inviting all Americans to tap into the Army’s expertise and embark on a path towards improved health and well-being. The U.S. Army, traditionally viewed as a symbol of strength and defense, is now emerging as a valuable resource for holistic health, offering a lifeline to individuals seeking to navigate the complexities of wellness and build a healthier future.
