What is a key benefit of practicing lifting techniques prior to the CFT?

Practicing lifting techniques prior to the Combat Fitness Test (CFT) significantly reduces the risk of injury. When service members rehearse proper lifting techniques, they become more familiar with safe body mechanics, such as maintaining correct posture and alignment, which helps in distributing the load effectively during physical activities. This familiarity decreases the likelihood of straining muscles or injuring joints, especially when moving heavy weights or performing strenuous tasks, which are common in the CFT.

In addition to enhancing safety, improving lifting techniques also contributes to overall performance during the test, as it allows service members to maximize their efficiency and effectiveness in physical tasks. While increasing strength and competitive edge are inherent benefits of physical training, the primary and immediate focus of practicing lifting techniques is to safeguard participants from injury and ensure they can perform at their best. Cultivating team spirit is valuable in a competitive environment but is not a direct benefit of practicing lifting techniques specifically.