IDF Sets New Fitness Standards for Reservists Before Deployment
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) is implementing new fitness requirements for reservists, detailed in a document circulated by the Chief of Reserve Affairs, Brigadier General Beni Ben Ari. These guidelines, currently being integrated, mandate that all reservists undergo basic fitness tests, strenuous shooting drills, and a weighted march before each deployment to maintain operational readiness. The new standards include a 3-kilometer run within 18 minutes for men and 20 minutes for women, three pull-ups for men, and three assisted pull-ups with a band for women. Men must also complete five parallel bar dips, and women five assisted dips with a band, alongside body measurements, to be performed during every pre-deployment training session.
Reservists will also be required to practice shooting under exertion, achieving a minimum score of 70, and complete an 8-10 kilometer march with full gear, tailored to individual exertion levels. Annually, reservists must participate in a 5 or 10-kilometer race and attend a fitness and health day, which includes functional training, lectures, Pilates, and a morning run. These measures stem from the understanding that reservists are integral to IDF operations and the intensity of their service has increased.
A pilot program conducted with a reserve brigade showed positive results, though with room for improvement, and another pilot is planned. The IDF emphasizes that the goal is to develop personalized training plans for reservists who do not meet the new standards, rather than disqualifying them from service. This contrasts with the stricter fitness requirements for active-duty soldiers, who must complete a 3km run in under 14:29 for men and 18:42 for women, among other demanding physical tests.
Akiva, a civilian employee serving as the fitness officer for the reserve forces, stated that while reservist fitness has been a concern since the Yom Kippur War, the constant need for reservists necessitates prioritizing their physical condition. He noted that the new standards are achievable and intended to be motivational, not punitive. The IDF aims to ensure its reservists are fit for any mission, reflecting a commitment to maintaining a professional and capable reserve force.
