Page 71 - Mind, Body and Spirit No. 105 2021/22

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Health Pilot – Some of the health pilot students during an active recovery session
SSgt Chudley zeroing the athletes before the race
The Regiment volunteered to run the second Fd Army Health Pilot Trial that was aimed at trying to improve poor health behaviours in personnel, over a 12-week period. During the trial, we had experts deliver different aspects of the course, which included presentations from a sleep specialist, an alcohol adviser and a nutritionist. The use of technology was a key aspect of this trial with students having to wear a Garmin watch to track their daily activity and a MyZone belt for all their PT lessons to track intensity.
As part of the trial, each student was required to conduct daily health checks and report any injuries through a mobile phone app. The app was used to monitor levels of both health and fatigue. Students had access to the weekly PT programme and were required to enter health information before and after each session.
SSgt Chudley at the closing ceremony
The information gathered via the app was then used by gym staff to adjust programming if any particular injury patterns or reports of tiredness or soreness were noted. With a few minor adjustments to the app, I can see this being a valuable tool for Army-wide use in the near future, allowing AAPTIs to have a better insight into soldiers’ current health status and levels of fatigue. Overall, the course was very well received. Students noted considerable improvements in their overall strength, SCR times or reduced BMI.
After retiring from the GB Biathlon team in 2009, it was always my intention to stay involved in the sport in some capacity, with a view to perhaps coaching in the future. I was delighted to be given the opportunity to work with the GB Para-Nordic ski athletes. After being involved with the team.
for over three years, I was selected as a coach for the Paralympics in Beijing. Shortly before the games began I was inadvertently promoted to lead the coaching of the Biathlon team after the head coach ruptured his Achilles tendon and was unable to fly!
The experience of attending the Paralympics was unforgettable and a truly amazing occasion. I felt a lot of pressure to help ensure the athletes were prepared for each race, knowing that my decisions would impact their race. Although the majority of the athletes were fairly new to the sport, they put in a strong and admirable performance. Our best result was a 6th place finish in the Men’s 12.5 km Individual Biathlon, which was a new personal best for the team, and allowed us to achieve our main goal for the Games. The team continues to grow and develop each year and this will hopefully attract new athletes and funding for the sport. I hope I can continue to stay involved with the team......particularly because the next Paralympic Games are in Milan!