The battlefields have changed drastically. I’ll trust they know what training is best.
“Heeding the advice of Iraq and Afghanistan combat veterans, commanders are dropping five-mile runs and bayonet drills in favor of zigzag sprints and exercises that hone core muscles.”
Things have changed. When was the last time a U.S. soldier used his bayonet in combat affixed to his rifle? I like that it was on the advice of returning combat vets. Sounds like a good move.
Being in shape helps running in the Afghan mountains after the al Quada and the Tali Bunnies. Sucking too much wind causes degradation to combat effectiveness.
I can see dropping the bayonet drills and adding zigzag sprint drills, especially if they are doing it with a full load and carrying weapon(s). But not dropping the 5 mile runs. Long distance running is very important to cardio and cardio is what enables your body to deal with exertion in extreme heat.
No more trench warfare (let’s hope).
They still ought to know something about cutlery, esp
in the SOF arena.
Slicing and dicing is a useful skill in CQB