Introduction: Some of the obstacle Course Race (OCR) competitions are co-organized by military units that are seeking candidates for service in special operations forces (SOFs). The aim of the study was to compare psycho-physical characteristics between Polish OCR athletes and SOF soldiers, in order to assess the possibility of recruiting future SOF soldiers from the OCR community.
Materials and methods: The study included 23 OCR competitors, and 17 soldiers from JW Formoza were used as the comparative group. The psychological measure of resilience was assessed using the Connor-Davidson Resilience Scale. Participants also completed a survey in which they had to rank character strengths. Physical fitness was assessed on the basis of a 3000-m run and the maximum number of sit-ups and straight pull-ups.
Results: There were significant differences between OCR participants and JW Formoza soldiers: body mass index, 24.1 ± 1.5 vs. 25.9 ± 1.9 (P = .002); 3000-m run, 11:59 ± 0:49 vs. 12:11 ± 0:28 (P = .024); and straight pull-ups, 19 ± 3 vs. 15 ± 3 (P = .001). The most commonly chosen character strengths in both groups were self-control, team worker, and optimism.
Conclusions: OCR competitors show psychophysical characteristics similar to those expected from actual SOF personnel.
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