Challenges to national defence in contemporary geopolitical situation

This article examines the physical fitness of young people in the Czech Republic. Unlike other studies addressing similar topics, it does not assess the individual components of physical abilities in isolation. Instead, an efficiency score is calculated using a multi‑criteria model based on four variables: shuttle run, long jump, the W170/kg test, and handgrip strength. This model produces an efficiency score for each participant, reflecting their overall level of physical fitness. The second stage of the analysis investigates whether these scores differ statistically significantly according to the type of school attended at the time of measurement. The comparison covers both general secondary schools (gymnasia) and technical/vocational secondary schools. The analysis also includes one military secondary school, which is the only institution of its kind in the Czech Republic. Data collected from 1,116 young people indicate that the type of school plays a significant role in determining physical fitness scores. Students attending the military secondary school achieve demonstrably better physical fitness outcomes compared to those from, for example, general academic secondary schools (gymnasia).