Gold standard: Olympian Kriss Akabusi is spearheading the Army’s new podcast-based fitness training regime for civilians and would-be soldiers
Pictures: Biss Lancaster

Interview: Richard Long

WHEN it comes to compiling a list of New Year’s resolutions it is safe to assume that a quest to get fit and lose weight will figure prominently in most people’s thoughts.

But statistics prove that the very best of intentions are hard to keep as 51 per cent of us abandon our new healthy lifestyles by Valentine’s Day.

The Army has set its sights on reversing this trend and has launcheda new initiative that offers a selection of 40-minute workouts, along with motivational support, for those determined to get in shape.

Army Fit: Personal is being delivered through a series of podcasts and features expert tuition from Army Physical Training Corps (APTC) instructors along with words of wisdom from Olympic athlete and ex-Serviceman Kriss Akabusi.

“Many people want to start fitness regimes at this time of year but they find it difficult due to the cost, or they don’t have the discipline,” the former track star told Soldier.

“We hope to provide them with the motivation, insight and framework they need to get themselves to the level where they could take the Army assessment or go on to join a sports club.

“The APTC uses these methods to help to train the Army for combat situations and we know they work. Our young men and women are in great physical condition.

“The Army is in vogue at the moment and people are keen to be associated with that.”
Cost, time and lack of motivation are among the biggest barriers to exercise but the new strategy aims to conquer these hurdles.

Listeners will be provided with guidance from their own “personal Army trainer” for a variety of workouts that have been designed as an alternative to the gym or paid-for fitness programmes.

As well as helping the general public to improve their fitness levels the aide will provide valuable support for recruits preparing for Army assessments.

“The APTC has a 150-year history of getting people fit for purpose. Whether you are a housewife or a banker the Army can give you a basic level of fitness,” Akabusi said.

“It is low cost, you can do this in your living room using a coffee table or a chair. There are no expensive fees or memberships involved.

“Whether you are a beginner or at an advanced level, there is a programme for you.”
Akabusi is certainly well placed to comment on these tried and trusted fitness methods having served with the Army for 15 years, nine of which were spent in the APTC.

The three-time Olympic medallist has fond memories of his time in the Service and is delighted to be working with the APTC once again.

“Through the Army I discovered my athletic prowess but now, because of the conflict in Afghanistan, it is very difficult to do what I did,” he said.

“I worked from 0700 to 1300 on fitness drills with the battalion and in the afternoon I did my own training.

“I don’t think the Army can afford that luxury now, I had a great time and I am very happy to be involved in this project.

“My experience as a soldier is outdated now so we have used two sergeants from the APTC to talk people through the workouts and I help with the motivational side.
“I personally think it is a fantastic way to keep fit.”

For more information about the programme and to download the podcasts visit www.armyfit.mod.uk