Comprehensive Fitness Assessment in a Professional Military Education Cohort: A Cross-Sectional Study.

Military personnel face rigorous physical and cognitive demands critical for operational readiness and long-term health. This study evaluated body composition, cognitive performance, and physical fitness metrics in non-entry-level service members to inform tailored fitness interventions. This cross-sectional study analyzed data from Air Command Staff College personnel (N = 307; 89 females, 218 males; age: 37 ± 5 years) at Air University, Maxwell Air Force Base. Participants completed assessments for body composition (body mass index [BMI], body fat percentage [%BF], fat mass index [FMI], fat-free mass index [FFMI]), flexibility (sit-and-reach test, functional reach test), cognitive performance (cognitive reaction time), power (countermovement jump), strength (grip strength, isometric midthigh pull), muscular endurance (plank), and aerobic fitness (Estimated VO). Relationships between age, sex, and fitness variables were analyzed with regression models, with percentile ranking, and comparisons to the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) guidelines. Age-related increases in BF% (r = 0.116, p = 0.045) and FMI (r = 0.129, p = 0.025) were observed, alongside declines in muscular strength, power, and endurance (all p < 0.01). Females exhibited higher BF% and FMI, while males had greater FFMI and strength. Older participants had lower compliance with ACSM standards, indicating elevated health risks. Targeted interventions should address age- and sex-specific needs, focusing on preserving lean mass, strength, and cognitive agility. Baseline fitness data contributes to designing evidence-based programs that enhance long-term readiness and operational performance.