Abstract:
This study investigated the influence of physical training on initial entry personnel of the
Ghana Armed Forces (GAF). A quantitative and qualitative research approach was used for
the study. The research technique used was the mixed methods. The significance of the study
was that it would help to create the awareness about the fitness levels of personnel of the
Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) for decisions to be taken by policy makers. Four research
questions were raised. The instrument used was a structured questionnaire and six (6) items
interview questions. Data was analysed using descriptive statistics of frequency counts and
percentage. The findings of the study revealed that majority of the respondents agreed that
physical fitness was very important to them. They also agreed that they were aware that
possessing good health related fitness is related to lower risk of illness and improved quality
of life. The study further revealed that Initial Entry Trainees (IET) soldiers are fitter
comparatively to other personnel of the GAF as their physical training regime in the academy
ensures that they are very fit. Even though the personnel of the GAF were aware of the
importance or benefits of physical training, only a few of them actually exercised regularly.
The findings revealed that majority of the trainees or IET soldiers felt that the level of
physical training was adequate whereas for the personnel of the GAF majority felt the
physical training for personnel was inadequate but needed an improvement. These findings
signify that the IET soldiers are indeed very fit when coming out of the Academy. The study
further revealed that the resources available for trainees were strictly training programmes:
drill sergeants/trainers, diet plans, physical training and fitness training equipment and grass
fields. The current study also revealed that the fitness levels of female counterparts over 40
years was bad with about 50% of the respondents stating that they were not fit. For senior members and other ranks over 40 years a majority representing 70% stated that they were not
fit or somewhat fit. A comparison of fitness levels of Initial Entry Trainee (IET) soldiers and
other personnel of the GAF show that that the fitness levels of IET soldiers are not equal to
the fitness levels of soldiers who have served 10 years or more with the IET soldier being
more fit than the other soldiers.
Some recommendations were that there is the need to emphasize the benefits of maintaining
a continuous physical training programme for members of the GAF. There is the need for
Trainees of the academy to be educated about the need for continuous physical training
throughout the course of their career and not for it to be seen as a means to an end. Thus they
would continually be motivated to exercise regularly leading to them maintaining fitness and
them receiving improved health benefits. There is also the need to institute improved
compulsory physical training for other staff of the GAF. They also need for them to be
educated on the benefits of physical training so that they would not relapse into sedentary life
styles as they age or progress in the profession. There is the need to replicate this study in
military arms in Ghana. Also the necessary resources and equipment should be provided for
personnel who are willing to adopt physical training programmes. Some form of motivation
should be given to personnel of the GAF who are always involved in physical fitness
training.
Description:
A THESIS IN THE DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH,PHYSICAL EDUCATION,
RECREATION AND SPORTS, FACULTY OF SCIENCE
EDUCATION,SUBMITTED TO THE SCHOOL OF GRADUATE STUDIES,
UNIVERSITY OF EDUCATION, WINNEBA IN PARTIAL FULFILMENT OF THE
REQUIREMENTS FOR AWARD OF THE MASTER OF PHILOSOPHY IN
(PHYSICAL EDUCATION)DEGREE