Evaluating Army Combat Fitness Test Scores: The Influence of Sleep, Nutrition, and Body Composition in Army Reserve Officers' Training Corps Cadets.

Cadets scoring ≥540 on the ACFT demonstrated significantly better sleep quality and shorter sleep latency than those scoring below 540.

• The ACFT score threshold used to distinguish groups was 540 points.
• Differences in sleep quality (PSQI) between the two groups were statistically significant (p < 0.01).
• Sleep latency was also shorter in the higher-scoring group.
• The Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) was the validated instrument used to assess sleep.

PSQI was a significant negative predictor of ACFT scores in backward linear regression analysis.

• Standardized regression coefficient β = -0.42, p = 0.007.
• A negative coefficient indicates that higher PSQI scores (worse sleep quality) were associated with lower ACFT scores.
• REAP-S (nutrition) and fat-free mass (FFM) showed marginal significance as predictors.
• The final regression model explained 22.4% of the variance in ACFT scores.

Correlation analyses revealed small but significant associations between body fat percentage, moderate-to-vigorous physical activity, and PSQI.

• Associations were described as 'small, significant' in magnitude.
• Variables included BF%, MVPA, and PSQI.
• Physical activity was assessed using the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ).
• Nutrition was assessed using the Rapid Eating Assessment for Participants–Shortened (REAP-S).

The study population consisted of 46 Army ROTC cadets with a mean age of 21.6 ± 2.0 years, including 7 women.

• Sample size was 46 cadets (women = 7).
• Mean age was 21.6 ± 2.0 years.
• This was a cross-sectional study design.
• ACFT scores were obtained from cadre within 30 days of survey completion.
• Cadets completed validated questionnaires for PA (IPAQ), sleep (PSQI), and nutrition (REAP-S), and underwent anthropometric testing.

Army ROTC cadets often lack access to the U.S. Army's Holistic Health and Fitness (H2F) program resources despite being required to meet ACFT standards.

• H2F encompasses physical, mental, nutritional, spiritual, and sleep domains for optimizing soldier readiness.
• ROTC cadets must meet physical fitness standards including the ACFT.
• The study was motivated by the gap in H2F support available to ROTC populations.
• Authors suggest future programs should consider holistic approaches to cadet wellness, especially without formal H2F support.