Weight training practices and perspectives among cadet women at a senior military college

Abstract

Weight training (WT) has been consistently shown to improve muscular ability among women, better preparing them to meet the demands of modern military service and overcome certain physiological challenges. Unfortunately, current training methods do not prioritize WT in most military populations, and women typically participate in WT at rates 20-30% lower than their male peers. The purpose of this study was to identify factors that influence WT participation among cadet women enrolled at a senior military college (SMC) to inform future programming, curriculum, facilities, or policies. First, a survey was administered to cadet women (n = 92) to characterize their WT participation and perceptions. Then, cadet women (n = 11) were interviewed to explore their perspectives on barriers, facilitators, and strategies for participation. Although WT is not often featured in twice per week institute-led physical training, 77% of cadet women reported participating in WT at least 2 days/wk and 49% reported = 3 days/wk. Athletes and women who planned to pursue military service after graduation reported higher rates of WT. Analysis of the interviews illuminated three themes: building reputation, “it’s on multiple fronts,” and “having to adapt.” WT was valued to support military readiness and build reputation in a male-dominated sphere emphasizing physicality. Cadet women’s perceived competence and strength were tied to reputation concerns. Time and space constraints included high academic course loads and extracurricular responsibilities associated with SMCs, coupled with limited facilities and equipment. Based on the views of cadet women in this study and low reported enrollment of women in current WT offerings, it is recommended that the institution provide additional educational resources and opportunities (e.g., workshops or women-only courses) as early as possible in a cadetship