New conscripts at the Santahamina garrison in Helsinki. Photo: Roni Rekomaa / Lehtikuva
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The Finnish Ministry of Defence has announced a new programme aimed at improving the physical condition of young people before they begin compulsory military service.
The scheme will begin in autumn 2025 in five municipalities: Taipalsaari, Ruokolahti, Paimio, Lahti and Kouvola. The aim is to roll it out across the country by 2027.
At the call-up events, regional sports organisations and the National Defence Training Association will provide tailored guidance on exercise and offer information about local physical activity services.
The initiative targets young men attending conscription sessions and seeks to build fitness before entering military training.
In Paimio, Lahti and Kouvola, conscripts will also use the MarsMars fitness app, which includes the Finnish Defence Forces’ newly released Commander-in-Chief’s Fitness Programme.
President Alexander Stubb, who serves as Finland’s Commander-in-Chief, features in several of the programme’s promotional videos. Stubb, known for his personal interest in endurance sports, has publicly encouraged physical activity among conscripts.
Defence Minister Antti Häkkänen said the decline in physical fitness among young people has broader implications. “Poor fitness among conscripts is a threat to young people’s wellbeing and health, as well as to national defence,” he said.
“With exercise counselling and guidance at the call-ups, we support the fulfilment of conscription and provide tools for adopting a physically active lifestyle,” Häkkänen added.
The new fitness initiative forms part of the Finland on the Move programme, a broader government effort to promote healthier lifestyles and physical activity nationwide.
HT
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Source: www.helsinkitimes.fi
