The Effect of a Rep-based Training Program on The Military Physical Test Ability of Military Cadets

This study investigated the effects of a 9-week rep-based training program (RPG) versus a conventional program (CPG) on muscular endurance and military fitness test performance among cadets at the Korea Army K Military Academy. A total of 127 cadets were assigned to either RPG (n=63) or CPG (n=64). The results showed that the RPG group had a 49.1% increase in push-ups and a 23.9% increase in sit-ups in the proportion of cadets achieving excellent fitness grades (Special Class and 1st Class), outperforming the CPG group, which showed increases of 26.6% and 18.8%, respectively. Both groups improved in push-ups and sit-ups; however, a significant interaction effect by group and time was observed only in push-ups (p＜.001), with no significant difference in sit-ups. In conclusion, the rep-based training program demonstrated more favorable outcomes in improving muscular endurance compared to the conventional program. This study suggests that such a customized training model is both effective and practically applicable within military training institutions.