Does strength training make soldiers slow?

It is a common belief in archaic military culture, but the evidence shows the opposite. Properly programmed strength training improves running economy, increases force production, strengthens tendons, and reduces injury risk.

By developing stronger legs, hips, and posterior chain, soldiers can run faster, carry load more efficiently, and sustain performance for longer with less fatigue.

This article explains why strength training supports endurance and speed, the science behind force production and movement efficiency, and how compound lifts such as squats, deadlifts, and loaded carries improve real-world military performance.