Soldier health and wellness is a lifestyle, and it’s made better by way of three key behaviors: activity, nutrition, and sleep.
The three building blocks of day-to-day living – activity, nutrition, and sleep – are the basis for the Army’s “Performance Triad,” a concept all Army National Guard Soldiers, as well as Army and Army Reservists will hear more about in the months and years ahead.
“It is in these areas that I think we can have the biggest impact to really make sure that we are ready and resilient and able to respond to whatever the future challenges are for our Army,” Army Surgeon General Lt. Gen. Patricia Horoho has said.
PERFORMANCE TRIAD FORMULA
The Performance Triad formula for Soldier wellbeing:
Activity: at least 150 minutes per week
Nutrition: build a healthy plate
Sleep: seven to eight hours, daily
In 2013, the U.S. Army Medical Command will pilot a Performance Triad program built on the formula. Pilot sites will include Ft. Bragg, N.C., Ft. Hood, Tex., and Joint Base Lewis McChord, Wash.
The goal is to improve individual performance and resilience. “Improvements in individual readiness equal improvements for the entire unit,” Brig. Gen. Brian C. Lein, deputy commanding general of operations for the U.S. Army Medical Command has said.
WHY CARE?
In 2012, the Army discharged more than 1,600 Soldiers for not meeting height and weight standards—a trend that must not continue.
Army National Guard Chief Surgeon Col. (Dr.) Anne Naclerio supports the Performance Triad formula.
WANT MORE INFORMATION?
The U.S. Army Stand-To provides more information on the Army Performance Triad. More to come as the Army releases more information and tools.