Abstract

Purpose: The optimization of the physical condition of the paratrooper responds to a contextual need and operational efficiency as well as to the application of new doctrines. Various jumping techniques create specific physical and technical constraints that can lead to different types of accidents and injuries.

Methods: After acquiring data of sports practices and the effects of training on paratroopers, we implemented concrete and simple measures as part of a « renovated physical », military and sports training. Health data were collected and analyzed by a physiotherapist and medical students.

Results: With no effect on overall performance, the evolution of sports’ practice is slow to become widespread. When implemented, the renovated fitness system allows a marked improvement in sports-related pathologies. The rate of injuries related to sports activity decreased from 65% to 21.7% in the first year. Hyper-solicitation diseases, which accounted for 40% of injuries, fell to 1%.

Conclusion: Finally, the risk of injury at least once a year decreased from 47.86% to 16.24%. However, preventive measures must also be considered individually in order to reduce the risk as much as possible.

Operational relevance: The practice of resistance training must therefore be popularized, as well as the reduction of the weekly mileage running. In general, the diversification and personalization of training must be the focus of our attention in order to achieve a modernization of physical, military and sports training.

Keywords: Operational fitness; Paratroopers; Reduction of injuries

Abbreviations: OPEX: External Operation; PT: Physical Training; RPIMa: Marine Infantry Paratroopers Regiment; HIIT: High Intensity Interval Training; CRF: Cardiorespiratory Fitness