In the context of the CFT, what does "endurance" refer to?

Endurance, particularly in the context of the Combat Fitness Test (CFT), specifically refers to the ability to sustain physical activity over an extended period. This concept is crucial for Marines, as their roles often require prolonged exertion in various environments and situations. Endurance is not merely about short bursts of strength or speed; it is about maintaining a level of effort over time to complete tasks that may last longer than a few minutes.

While aspects like teamwork, task management, and recovery are important qualities in a military context, endurance directly addresses physical stamina. For example, during the CFT, the physical demands can be spread across various activities that can test a Marine’s capacity to continue performing effectively without succumbing to fatigue. This is essential for operational readiness, as Marines may find themselves in situations where they must maintain physical activity under stressful and exhausting conditions. Emphasizing endurance highlights the need for endurance training and conditioning within the Marine Corps.