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Let NSmen choose between pull-ups, push-ups in IPPT

There have been mixed reactions to the revised Individual Physical Proficiency Test (IPPT).

There have been mixed reactions to the revised Individual Physical Proficiency Test (IPPT).

National servicemen who fail the annual IPPT welcome the removal of pull-ups, the standing broad jump and the shuttle run. The “killer” station for many of them is still the 2.4km run.

Others, including fitness experts, have questioned the removal of pull-ups, which will be replaced with push-ups.

Some even questioned if our military has gone soft, even though there has been a new combat fitness and test regime, including a vocation obstacle course and vocation-related exercises, implemented over the past few years.

Those who pass the IPPT make the effort to incorporate an exercise regime into their hectic work schedule and family life. They have to now revise their training regime, since pull-ups will be obsolete.

Pull-ups and push-ups use different muscle groups even though both test one’s upper-body strength. Of the two, push-ups are easier.

I suggest that, besides the 2.4km run and sit-ups, the third IPPT station be a choice of either pull-ups or push-ups. This is fairer to fitter NSmen.

Our uniformed services can then keep their pull-up bars and daily training regimes.

Moreover, most housing estates and condominiums have pull-up bars. It would also help to uphold the point that the military has not gone soft.

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