Why Obesity Is a National Security Crisis

Obesity has become a pressing issue that not only affects individual health but also US national security.

About 68% of active-duty US military personnel are overweight or obese, and a staggering 57% of Americans aged 18-25 face similar challenges, impacting recruitment for all branches of the military.

These figures, highlighted in a letter from the non-partisan organization the American Security Project to the Department of Defense (DoD), expose the magnitude of this crisis.

Even though some estimates of recruiting numbers suggest an upward tick for various reasons (including relaxed fitness standards), the fitness industry has a unique opportunity to step up as a key player in addressing this issue for military recruiting, readiness, and broader public health. By championing rigorous health and fitness initiatives, collaborating with local communities, and supporting future recruits, health clubs and studios can be instrumental in boosting military readiness and reinforcing a healthier, more resilient force.

The Growing Crisis: Obesity and Military Readiness

The financial toll of obesity on the US military is enormous, with the DoD spending over $1.5 billion annually on healthcare for current and former service members affected by obesity.

But the crisis goes far beyond economics.

A shrinking pool of physically eligible young recruits places unprecedented pressure on military recruiters and training systems.

Rob Wilkins, a retired US Air Force Master Sergeant and former member of the President’s Council on Sports, Fitness & Nutrition, reflects on this problem: “It’s amazing that, after all these years, such a limited population can serve because of obesity and inactivity. Just think about the ramifications for society at large.”

Wilkins spoke at the HFA’s 2024 Fly-In and Advocacy Summit about the subject and appeared on a panel at The HFA Show 2025 urging the industry to become more proactive in helping recruits and active-duty members to find places to exercise.

The effects of recruits’ declining fitness are serious and far-reaching. Service members who enter the military without sufficient fitness levels are more likely to suffer injuries or health complications, making it even harder to meet the physical demands of military life.

“If recruits haven’t exercised for weeks, months, or even years, their bodies are likely to break down during basic training,” Wilkins explains. “It’s crucial they start getting fit before they even arrive at boot camp.”

The Fitness Industry’s Crucial Role in Military Health

With access to exercise equipment lacking for many military service members, the civilian fitness industry can be a powerful ally in addressing the obesity crisis. Wilkins sees fitness centers as workout facilities and community hubs that can drive meaningful change.

“We live in an amazing country,” Wilkins states. “But the health of our country is vital. Without it, we can’t secure it.”

He believes that fitness professionals— from gym owners to personal trainers—are essential to bridging the gap between military readiness and community fitness. He cites three ways to boost military fitness.

1. Engage Youth Early for Lasting Change

Wilkins emphasizes the importance of reaching young people early to combat obesity. “It’s harder for the message to stick if kids aren’t seeing it at home or school,” he notes. He advocates for fitness to be made fun, social, and accessible to kids, stressing that not every child aspires to be a hardcore athlete. Engaging kids through school programs, sports teams, and online initiatives can lay the foundation for lifelong healthy habits.

2. Partner With Recruiters for Effective Prep

Wilkins urges more fitness centers to collaborate with local recruiters and military installations to provide resources for young recruits. This proactive military engagement can be accomplished by offering free memberships and customized training apps for recruits preparing for basic training.

“It’s not just about providing access to a gym—it’s about offering guidance too,” he explains, referencing the risks of untrained recruits using pre-workouts and energy drinks without a proper understanding of their effects.

3. Promote Sleep and Health Literacy

Nutrition and sleep are often overlooked elements of fitness and military readiness. Wilkins advocates for simple, cost-free solutions to improve health, such as better sleep hygiene.

How Local Communities, Parents, and Coaches Can Champion Youth Fitness and Change the Narrative

Rob Wilkins, retired US Air Force Master Sergeant and fitness advocate, illustrates how local communities can lead the charge in reversing America’s physical inactivity crisis. What began as a one-day event in Loudoun County, Virginia, the Loudoun County Day of Play, has grown into the Loudoun County Week of Play (LCWP)—a week of fun, fitness, and community building.

This week-long initiative demonstrates the strong collaboration between communities and fitness professionals to promote physical fitness and military readiness among young people.

Why LCWP works:

• Movement forms the basis of this program’s learning processes and community involvement.
• All children receive equal access to opportunities through this program, regardless of their abilities and skills.
• It builds lasting fitness habits that go beyond a single event or season.

Wilkins explains: “Whether you’re running, walking, or cheering, this is our chance to come together, get energized, and have fun.”

Want to create your own version of LCWP?

• Volunteer with youth sports organizations to make physical activity accessible for all children.
• Partner with schools to increase access to physical activity and sports programs.
• Organize local fitness challenges or “play days” to unite families for healthy fun.
• Encourage policy support for physical education and extracurricular fitness programs in schools.

CALL TO ACTION: The Fitness Industry’s Role in National Security

Fitness centers and professionals have a unique opportunity to step up and help resolve this national security issue. Here’s how the fitness industry can make a lasting impact:

• Partner with military recruiters to provide pre-enlistment fitness programs or prep classes for young recruits.
• Offer veterans pathways to employment by providing mentorship and leadership roles in fitness organizations.
• Launch youth fitness initiatives through schools and community programs focused on military readiness and overall health.
• Advocate for fitness-related legislation, such as the PHIT Act, to improve access to physical activity resources.
• Promote health education in your communities with workshops on sleep, nutrition, and safe exercise practices.