Army chiefs have been accused of “a failure of leadership” after 22,500 soldiers flunked fitness tests in a three-year period.
Figures from the Ministry of Defence show 13,527 were found lacking between 2019 and 2022 in the annual Soldier Condition Review. A further 8,988 failed to complete two other exams, the Annual Fitness Test and the Role Fitness Test.
Col Richard Kemp, a former commander in Afghanistan, said: “Allowing soldiers’ health to decline is like neglecting a weapon system. It represents a failure of leadership.” While figures for regular personnel varied between 3% and 10%, failures soared to 30% among reservists. The test, which includes a 2km run, 30m sprints, pull-ups, jumps, deadlifts and a seated medicine ball throw, was introduced in 2019.
Former head of the Army General Sir Richard Dannatt said: “The solution to this issue is very much a chain of command matter”. An Army spokesman said: “Those who do not pass receive support to ensure they meet the necessary standards for their role.”