ABSTRACT
OBJECTIVE: To evaluate differences in physical readiness and obesity in worksites with inherent limitations in exercise availability, utilizing data from U.S. Navy personnel assigned to submarines. METHODS: Cross-sectional study utilizing height, weight, and Physical Readiness Test (PRT) scores of 26,341 individuals assigned to small submarines (SS), large submarines (LS), and aircraft carriers (AC). RESULTS: PRT failure rates were 3.4% (AC), 1.5% (LS), and 2.9% (SS). Prevalence of obesity was 15.1% (AC), 16.9% (LS), and 17.8% (SS). The adjusted prevalence odds ratio of obesity was increased on SS and LS compared to AC, 1.25 (96% CI = 1.14, 1.31) and 1.17 (95% CI = 1.06, 1.29), respectively. CONCLUSIONS: Despite limitations in exercise availability, submarine personnel performance on the PRT was similar to that of AC personnel. Although the prevalence of obesity on submarines was slightly higher, it remains below U.S. nonmilitary comparison data. Although limited access to exercise has the potential for adverse health effects in worker populations, in our cohort of young men, the changes in both physical readiness and obesity were small. Further research on a more diverse group of workers is warranted.
