Assessment of recruit motivation and strength study: Preaccession physical fitness assessment predicts early attrition

Background: The Assessment of Recruit Motivation and Strength (ARMS) study was designed to pilot-test the use of a physical fitness screening tool for Army applicants before basic training. Methods: The ARMS test consists of two components, namely, a 5-minute step test and push-ups. Attrition among 7,612 recruits who underwent preaccession ARMS testing and began service between May 2004 and December 2005 was studied. Results: ARMS test performance was found to be significantly related to risk of attrition within 180 days; the hazard ratios for failing relative to passing the ARMS test were 2.27 (95% confidence interval, 1.70-3.04) among female subjects and 1.36 (95% confidence interval, 1.13-1.64) among male subjects. The attributable risk of attrition associated with failing the ARMS test was similar to 40% among female subjects and similar to 30% among male subjects. Discussion: The ARMS study is the first prospective study conducted in the U.S. Army to assess physical fitness before accession. Physical fitness and motivation to serve were shown to correlate with attrition during initial entry training.