Tap Out is a popular term in combat sports, particularly in mixed martial arts (MMA), where it refers to a fighter submitting or surrendering by tapping on their opponent or the mat. However, does the Army, the branch of the military that emphasizes toughness, endurance, and resilience, incorporate a Tap Out practice? Let’s find out more.
Physical Fitness Training in the Army
In the Army, physical fitness training plays a crucial role in maintaining the health, strength, and readiness of its soldiers. The Army has established a comprehensive fitness program known as the Army Physical Fitness Test (APFT). This test measures soldiers’ strength, endurance, and aerobic fitness through various exercises and evaluations.
The APFT consists of three components:
- Push-Ups
- Sit-Ups
- Two-Mile Run
Soldiers are assessed on their performance in each of these components, and their scores contribute to their overall physical fitness evaluation. The Army aims to ensure that all soldiers are physically fit to perform their duties effectively.
Close Combat Training in the Army
In the Army, close combat training focuses on equipping soldiers with the necessary skills for hand-to-hand combat situations. Close combat techniques are taught to enhance soldiers’ abilities for self-defense and protection in combat scenarios.
The Army emphasizes techniques such as defensive and offensive strikes, blocking and parrying, grappling, and ground-fighting maneuvers. These skills are vital for soldiers in close-quarter battle situations where firearms may not be immediately accessible or appropriate.
Army Combatives Program
One aspect of the Army’s close combat training is the Army Combatives Program (ACP), which incorporates a system of skills and techniques derived from various martial arts disciplines. The aim of this program is to enhance soldiers’ ability to engage in hand-to-hand combat effectively.
The ACP utilizes techniques from Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, wrestling, boxing, and other combat sports. It focuses on both offensive and defensive strategies, ground grappling, and submissions. However, it is important to clarify that the ACP does not utilize or involve the concept of “tapping out” as seen in civilian combat sports such as MMA.
Army Ethos and Mental Resilience
In addition to physical training, the Army places significant emphasis on mental resilience and the ability to withstand adversity. Soldiers are trained to push their physical and mental limits, developing a never-give-up attitude and a mindset focused on mission accomplishment.
The Army instills in its soldiers the importance of perseverance, teamwork, and adaptability. This mental resilience is cultivated to ensure soldiers can endure challenging situations and overcome obstacles, enhancing their effectiveness as members of a cohesive fighting force.
Physical Training Principles in the Army
Active-duty soldiers receive comprehensive physical training that encompasses a variety of exercises and methodologies. The Army utilizes various approaches in its physical training programs, including:
- Interval Training: Alternating periods of high-intensity exercise with rest or recovery periods.
- Cross Training: Incorporating multiple types of exercises and workouts to target different muscle groups and enhance overall fitness.
- Functional Fitness: Focusing on exercises that mimic movements used in military operations and daily tasks.
These training principles help soldiers develop not only physical strength but also agility, endurance, and flexibility necessary for their military roles.
Conclusion
While the Army emphasizes physical fitness, combat training, and mental resilience, it does not incorporate the concept of “tap out” from civilian combat sports like MMA. The Army’s training programs focus on building soldiers’ physical strength, combat skills, and mental toughness to enhance their capabilities on the battlefield. By instilling discipline, teamwork, and perseverance, the Army prepares its soldiers to overcome challenges and accomplish the mission at hand.