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SINGAPORE : The Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) has strengthened its combat fitness training system and is leveraging on advances in training fitness science to better prepare soldiers to meet evolving operational demands.
The enhanced system has two components.
One is the Vocation Related Exercises (VREs), which comprises a set of workouts customised to the different vocations in the SAF.
For example, commandos will have exercises like lunges for long distance marches, and artillery soldiers do horizontal pulls for carrying loads.
The Ministry of Defence said the changes will ensure the SAF's combat fitness training is relevant, customised and progressive.
The other is the Vocation Obstacle Course (VOC) - a re-designed course.
Some of the obstacles in the existing course have been re-designed to better emulate the new operating environment.
They will better develop the soldiers' strength, agility and endurance for basic combat movement and tasks.
The new VOC will be constructed in all combat units by June 2011.
"The third generation SAF is faced with an increasingly complex operating environment and operational demands. To better meet these challenges, we have strengthened our combat fitness training system such that it better prepares soldiers for their operational tasks and help them sustain their combat fitness," said Colonel Ng Wai Kit, Assistant Chief of General Staff (Training), SAF.
In addition, the course requires soldiers to work as a team.
"It's more of an urban operation compared to the old one; it's more conventional. And it builds up our teamwork because we clear as a section, and it also builds up the confidence as well," said Corporal Melvin Chia, 3rd Battalion, Singapore Infantry Regiment.
Sports science and medicine was also utilised in the design - to enhance safety.
"The recruits are taught the proper technique of clearing the obstacles. Once they can clear, they'll wear the 2.5kg body armour so that it increases the load. Given time, the body will grow stronger and there's less risk of injury," said Roger Tian, a Sports Medicine Physician at Changi Hospital.
The new VOC will be implemented for all regulars and full-time National Servicemen during their active service and when they progress to Operationally Ready National Service (ORNS).
It will not apply to the current batches of NSmen.
The Ministry of Defence said these changes will ensure that the SAF's combat fitness training is relevant customised and progressive. - CNA /ls
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