Summer 2024
Cognitive performance training with the Army’s 82nd Combat Aviation Brigade
Wesley Sykes

cognitive

The Army’s cognitive performance tests highlight the indispensable role of mental acuity in enhancing overall soldier readiness and performance. These tests are designed to evaluate and improve cognitive functions such as memory, attention, and decision-making, which are crucial in high-stress environments.

Cognitive performance tests serve several critical purposes in the military. Firstly, they help identify the cognitive strengths and weaknesses of soldiers. By understanding an individual’s cognitive profile, trainers can tailor conditioning programs to address specific needs, ensuring a more balanced development of both physical and mental capabilities. For instance, a soldier with exceptional physical strength but lower cognitive flexibility can benefit from targeted cognitive training to enhance adaptability and strategic thinking.

Moreover, these tests are instrumental in improving situational awareness and decision-making under pressure. Soldiers often face unpredictable scenarios where quick and accurate decisions can mean the difference between mission success and failure. Cognitive training hones their ability to process information rapidly, prioritize tasks, and make sound decisions even in the chaos of combat. This mental agility is as vital as physical endurance in ensuring mission effectiveness.

The integration of cognitive performance tests also contributes to long-term mental resilience. Repeated exposure to cognitive challenges helps soldiers develop coping strategies for stress and fatigue, common in prolonged missions. Enhanced cognitive resilience means that soldiers are better equipped to handle the psychological demands of their roles, reducing the risk of burnout and enhancing overall well-being.

By focusing on mental and physical training, the military ensures that its soldiers are not only strong and agile but also mentally sharp and resilient. This holistic approach to soldier development is essential for maintaining peak performance in complex and demanding environments.

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The above video, put together by Sgt. James Lundy details how the 82nd Combat Aviation Brigade incorporates cognitive performance physical training into their daily workouts.