Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth is spearheading a campaign to combat rising obesity rates among National Guard and Reserve troops, emphasizing a return to stringent fitness standards and combat readiness.
At a Glance
- 68% of Reserve Forces Overweight: A report by the American Security Project highlights that over two-thirds of National Guard and Reserve troops are overweight, posing a threat to military readiness.
- Hegseth’s Fitness Overhaul: Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has ordered a comprehensive review of military fitness and grooming standards to address the obesity crisis.
- Gender-Neutral Fitness Tests Introduced: The U.S. Army is implementing a new “sex-neutral” fitness test for 21 combat-related positions, effective June 1, 2025.
- Obesity Costs Military $1.35 Billion Annually: Obesity among service members is costing the military up to $1.35 billion annually in direct care expenses and productivity losses.
- Critics Question Hegseth’s Approach: Some lawmakers and military officials express concern over the potential impact of Hegseth’s reforms on diversity and inclusion within the armed forces.
Hegseth’s Fitness Overhaul
In response to alarming obesity rates among military personnel, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has initiated a sweeping review of physical fitness and grooming standards across all service branches. The move aims to address the growing concern that 68% of National Guard and Reserve troops are overweight, which could compromise military readiness. Hegseth emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating, “Completely unacceptable. This is what happens when standards are IGNORED — and this is what we are changing. REAL fitness & weight standards are here. We will be FIT, not FAT” (Fox News).
The American Security Project’s recent report underscores the severity of the issue, revealing that obesity not only affects individual health but also hampers recruitment, retention, and overall mission readiness. The report calls for improved data collection and public reporting to better understand and address obesity’s impact on reserve readiness (American Security Project).
Watch Fox News’ report on the incident at Hegseth vows crackdown on military obesity after shocking Reserve Guard report.
Implementing Gender-Neutral Fitness Standards
As part of the reforms, the U.S. Army is set to introduce a new “sex-neutral” fitness test for soldiers in 21 combat-related positions, including infantry officers and combat engineers. This change, effective June 1, 2025, aims to ensure that all soldiers, regardless of gender, meet the same physical standards required for their roles. The updated test removes the standing power throw event but retains exercises like the two-mile run and hand-release push-up. While some female soldiers already exceed current minimums, there are concerns that the elevated standards might impact young female soldiers’ pass rates (Washington Post).
Hegseth’s directive aligns with a broader push to eliminate what he perceives as “woke” policies within the military. In a fiery address at the Army War College, he criticized diversity initiatives and social policies, asserting that the military should focus solely on warfighting capabilities. “No more social engineering. No more climate change worship. No more electric tanks. No more gender confusion. No more pronouns. No more excuses. No more quotas. No more woke bullshit that undermines commanders and command,” Hegseth declared (Washington Post).
Financial Implications of Military Obesity
The financial burden of obesity on the military is substantial. A recent study estimates that obesity among service members costs the military up to $1.35 billion annually, factoring in direct care expenses and productivity losses. The report highlights that even under the best circumstances, military fitness programs reduce body weight by less than 1% in active-duty populations, and none have been proven to maintain weight loss over time (American Security Project).
These findings have prompted calls for more effective interventions and a reevaluation of current fitness programs. The American Security Project recommends implementing evidence-based obesity interventions and enhancing data tracking and reporting to better address the issue.
Criticism and Concerns
While Hegseth’s initiatives have garnered support from some quarters, they have also faced criticism. Lawmakers and military officials express concern that the reforms might undermine diversity and inclusion efforts within the armed forces. Critics argue that the focus on uniform standards could disproportionately impact certain groups and potentially reverse progress made in recent years.
Despite the controversy, Hegseth remains steadfast in his commitment to reshaping military culture. He continues to enjoy backing from key Republican figures and President Trump, who appointed him to the position earlier this year. As the military navigates these changes, the balance between maintaining combat readiness and fostering an inclusive environment remains a contentious issue.
