8 Ways Military PT Has Shaped the Wider World of Fitness
Military fitness training has influenced the fitness world for decades, inspiring generations of workouts.
From enthusiasts wearing backpacks for "fun" walks to paying for obstacle course races, the military has contributed to civilian fitness trends.
Classic Contributions and Latest Trends
- Boot Camp Workouts: Group classes with calisthenics and jogging, taught by instructors, were popular in the 1990s and have evolved to include cardio machines and weighted equipment.
- Pull-up Bars, Calisthenics, and the PT Pyramid: Pull-up bars are common on military bases, reflecting the emphasis on calisthenics and strength training.
People have pulled from the military fitness world and added to their civilian lives.
Author's summary: Military PT has shaped the wider world of fitness.
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Military.com — 2025-10-27