Report | April 30, 2015

Unfit to Fight

Childhood obesity, lack of physical fitness, and asthma are contributing factors as to why today's young adults are ineligible for military service

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This report outlines why more than 70% of young adults in the U.S. would not qualify for military service. It’s due to a rise in childhood obesity, cases of asthma, and lack of physical fitness. Long-term military readiness is at risk unless a large-scale change in physical activity and nutrition takes place in America.

Providing more opportunities for children to engage in physical activity is critical, regardless of what career path they may ultimately choose. This report details three ways that state and federal policymakers can strengthen the next generation:

  • Build physical activity back into communities
  • Bring back physical education to schools
  • Maintain healthy school meal standards