Originally Posted by Baraka_Guru

Beggers can't be choosers.

They need to keep the rosters full, and so they're dealing with a social issue that's a hindrance. It might, on the surface, seem like they're lowering their standards and/or making training "easier." However, the reality is that their recruits are increasingly getting injured. If you know anything about fitness training, it's important to gauge it to the individual. You can always bring people up to a physical standard.

Just because it happens more gradually, it doesn't mean it's easier. It takes longer, but the goal should be the same: combat-ready personnel.

I wouldn't criticize the U.S. Army for their strategy. I would rather criticize social conventions, a lack of public education, and a failure of personal responsibility for the terrible shape recruits find themselves in.