Sport

A soldier from 3rd Battalion The Parachute Regiment fights a boxer from Oxford University, 2009

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Sport and preparing troops for war

The British Army has long believed that sport prepares men for combat by increasing fitness, channelling aggression, and focusing the mind. Sport serves to strengthen the ties between men, instilling discipline and readiness to serve a common cause.

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Cap badge, Army Physical Training Corps, 1940

Royal Army Physical Training Corps

Established in 1860, this unit is responsible for ensuring that British soldiers maintain the physical fitness levels necessary for engaging in military operations.

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Pole-vaulting at the 14th Punjab Regiment's Sports Day, 1937

Sport and morale in the British Army

Sport has always been important for morale. It reinforces group identity and makes soldiers ready to serve a shared cause, even in the most difficult circumstances.

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Rugby match featuring members of the 3rd County of London Yeomanry, 1942

Sport and British Army recruitment

Although factors like patriotism, financial security and the chance to travel have persuaded men and women to enlist, sport has also played a major role in British Army recruitment.

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Sport and preparing troops for war

The Army has long believed that sport prepares men and women for combat by increasing fitness, channelling aggression and instilling discipline.

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Officers of 1st Battalion The Loyal Regiment (North Lancashire), representing the range of sports played, 1936

The Army’s impact on sport

The British Army has been responsible for establishing many of the sports we know and love today. It has also helped spread activities like football, polo, cricket and hockey throughout the world.

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‘Bronco’ Lane: Everest adventurer

Adventure training is an important part of life in the modern British Army, but it comes with its own risks. Major 'Bronco' Lane lost more than he bargained for on an expedition to Mount Everest in 1976.

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