The Navy SEAL Physical Fitness Guide - Uniformed Services ...

For larger platforms or forward operating bases with physicalsecurity limitations, the following equipment in addition to weights should also beconsidered:" Climbers" Cycle ergometer" Rowing machine" Stair climber" Treadmill" Ski machine" Upper arm ergometerPhysical fitness equipment on a submarineshould, at a minimum, include a cycleergometer, a rowing machine and free weights.The stationary cycle and rowing machines should have a performance monitor todisplay time, distance, etc., so that progress on stationary equipment can be charted andmonitored. Platoons deployed under confined circumstances can reduce the monotony ofstationary equipment and boost training morale by creating competitions. Monitoring andcharting each members daily PT progress will help demonstrate results, encourage physicaltraining, and maintain physical fitness.DeconditioningWhen a person is unable to maintain his exercise program, for whatever reason,detraining or deconditioning occurs rapidly. Numerous studies have investigated the effectof detraining on cardiorespiratory fitness, and significant reductions in work capacity hasbeen noted within two weeks. A 25% decrease in maximal oxygen uptake has been reportedafter three weeks, which is equivalent to a 1% decline in physiologic function for each dayof inactivity. In addition, the proportion and size of the Type II fibers have been shown todecrease with detraining. In contrast, maximal muscle strength appears to be more resilientto periods of inactivity. A reduction in maximal capacity only means that itwill be harder for you to do a given task than prior to deconditioning. Youwill still be able to do the work. Remember:The benefits of training areThe Navy SEAL Physical Fitness Guide 197