MARCH 23, 2023 – A new Navy policy allows Sailors a one-time reset of all their previous Physical Readiness Test (PRT) failures.
This policy was implemented in order to improve reenlistment and advancement rates as well as increase acceptance rates for extensions and duty station transfers.
However, with PRT season right around the corner, it’s still necessary to keep your body in shape.
“The PRT is important because we want to stay mission ready,” said Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Jacques Renard, Command Fitness Leader at Defense Media Activity Fort Meade.
Renard believes that Sailors should always be prepared for the PRT by incorporating exercise and a healthy diet into their daily routine. The Navy Physical Assessment app is one source that sailors can use to track their fitness needs.
The app helps sailors calculate their scores for the PRT and Body Composition Assessment. Meeting the physical standards is important because every service member will be needed to defend their ship and shipmates during emergencies.
Sailors that fail the PRT will receive administrative counseling and will be given a chance to retake the test. If they are still unable to pass the physical requirements, they will be placed in the Fitness Enhancement Program until they can meet standards and pass a mock PRT.
“Eat less saturated fats, sodium and added sugar,” said Army Lieutenant Ryan Farley, Chief of Outpatient Nutrition Services at Bethesda Naval Hospital.
Maintaining a proper diet is essential to keeping the body in shape. Fresh unprocessed food, low fat dairy and lean meat are all foods you want to include in your meals. Drinking lots of water can help prevent dehydration. But, according to Farley, the key lies in knowing your body.
If your body cannot handle heavy meals, avoid eating excessive carbs the night before the PRT.
After exercising, ingesting protein-rich foods will help with muscle recovery and growth. Farley acknowledges that protein powder can be useful and recommends brands with 20-25 grams of protein per serving and some carbohydrates.
Service members should consult medical professionals and their command to ensure that they select the best and safest protein powders for their bodies.
Bethesda Naval Hospital even offers non-referral consultations with nutritionists, but service members everywhere may schedule an appointment with their primary doctor to learn how they can stay fit.
For more information about the PRT or to check what standards sailors are expected to meet, visit My Navy Fitness.
Story by Seaman Alexandria Esteban
All Hands Magazine