Generolo Jono Žemaičio Lietuvos karo akademija

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).

Physical fitness is a key element of military readiness. This study compared performance in the 12-minute run and upper-body strength tests between University of Defence students and active-duty soldiers from Land Forces, Air Forces, and the Airborne Regiment (data 2023–2025, age 20–30 years). University of Defence students significantly outperformed Land Forces and Air Forces personnel in the 12-minute run in both sexes. In upper-body strength, students achieved comparable or slightly better results than Land and Air Forces. The Airborne Regiment remained a distinct elite group, recording the highest performance in all disciplines. Performance was highly stable across the three-year period. The results indicate that military university students demonstrate physical fitness levels comparable to or exceeding those of regular active-duty soldiers, while still falling short of the standards of the Airborne Regiment.