Building Strong Forces: Hegseth’s scientific approach to manpower

Understanding Military Obesity and Fitness Concerns

As we approach Veterans Day, it’s important to understand the increasing rates of obesity in the armed forces. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth’s strong focus on improving troop health and fitness may initially seem like a positive step for active duty service members and veterans, particularly when viewed in light of the higher obesity rates faced by veterans compared to the general population. However, the proposed solution to this long-standing issue may not be as effective as one would hope.

Solution to Obesity in the Military

In a recent talk to top uniformed leaders in the U.S., Hegseth suggested a seemingly straightforward but essentially ineffective solution to the military’s obesity problem: “Either you are disciplined, fit and trained, or you are out.”

The Current State of Obesity in the Military

Approximately two-thirds of active duty service members are overweight or obese, posing a significant readiness challenge to the armed forces. This obesity crisis is costing the Pentagon over $1 billion each year, notably increasing the risk of musculoskeletal injuries and other health issues, and can even prevent service members from being deployed. It is crucial, both strategically and morally, to improve the health and fitness of those who devote their lives to protecting the United States.

A New Approach to Military Fitness

Regrettably, the solution put forward by Hegseth neither considers the practical challenges nor offers a productive way forward. As the military grapples with a declining pool of eligible recruits and an increasing number of global crises, threatening to remove every “unfit” service member seems empty. The armed forces are already spread thin, and further manpower reductions would only hamper their ability to respond effectively to growing demands.

Challenging the Stigma Around Obesity in the Military

While Hegseth’s stance may seem extreme, it is not new to the military. For years, body composition standards have been implemented for all service members, with those failing to meet these standards facing consequences from discrimination to expulsion. But it’s important to note that the real issue is not a lack of discipline or laziness. Instead, the challenge lies in overcoming structural barriers that make it difficult for service members to manage their weight and maintain a healthy lifestyle, such as long, sedentary hours, insufficient sleep, and poor nutrition on base.

Addressing Nutrition as a Core Component of Military Health

Fortunately, there are many policy solutions that the Pentagon could adopt to improve medical readiness without having to discharge scores of much-needed personnel. A great place to start would be investing in robust obesity prevention measures. While Hegseth’s push for increased physical activity is a good first step, another essential component of this equation, nutrition, has been largely overlooked. Recent media reports have highlighted the challenges associated with access to healthy food options on base, including excessive fast-food vendors, overly processed meals, and limited dining facility hours.

Investing in Education and Treatment for Military Obesity

If the goal is to have service members adhere to the highest physical standards, then the food provided to them must align with this objective. Additionally, the Pentagon should continue to invest in educational programs to counteract misinformation and reduce reliance on potentially harmful “bro science.”

Understanding the Complex Nature of Obesity

While a healthy diet and regular exercise are key to a healthy lifestyle, they may not be enough for many individuals already battling with obesity. The traditional “calories in, calories out” approach to obesity treatment is based on outdated science and a fundamental misunderstanding of the complex physiological processes behind weight loss. Biological adaptations that promote fat retention, make it extremely difficult for individuals with obesity to lose weight, and those who do manage to lose weight almost always regain it.

Future of Fitness in the Military

This Veterans Day, it’s crucial for the Department of Defense to remember that it can honor future veterans by providing active and reserve service members with the science-based tools they need to stay fit and healthy. If it can adopt proven prevention and treatment measures instead of relying on the same punitive policies that have failed for decades, the military will be better equipped to combat the obesity crisis and promote a healthier future for all service members.