App inspires people to make fitness their mission

"We can see that keeping fit and staying healthy is a growing struggle for many New Zealanders, so we felt an obligation to do something to help." Photo / Thinkstock

The New Zealand Defence Force has released a free "Force Fit" mobile app, which delivers training expertise it has amassed over many years.

This is a response to growing numbers of New Zealanders no longer able to pass entry level fitness tests required to join the armed forces.

Recruiters are observing the trend, due to wider health and fitness difficulties among the population, says Chief of Defence Force Lieutenant General Tim Keating.

"We can see that keeping fit and staying healthy is a growing struggle for many New Zealanders, so we felt an obligation to do something to help.

"The idea is not only to help to prepare our recruits, but also to inspire the whole country to join us in making fitness their mission."

A recent New Zealand health survey found 1.2 million New Zealanders are obese, more than was recorded in the 2012 report.

The Defence Force is one of the country's fittest organisations and it's critical for people to remain in peak physical condition, says General Keating.

"Personnel can be called upon to conduct, by land, air or sea, activities such as carrying 30kg packs, completing search and rescue missions under onerous conditions, assisting in rebuilding after a natural disaster along with numerous other demanding activities in support of the nation.

"So we make sure our people have the support they need to help keep them in top condition."

The app is simple to use, suitable for any fitness level and free for Android and iPhone.