Is physical fitness overvalued in the Army? | NCO Journal

I would have to say yes. Far too many instances I have seen sub-par NCOs get promoted, get special assignments, and generally be treated better than Soldiers that weren't as physically fit but excelled in their profession. I remember during my assignment in the 82nd, my old Smoke (Platoon Sergeant) told me "You may not be smart or be good at your job but as long as you can run, you alright." The Army NCO Creed pledges that NCOs will "strive to be tactically and technically proficient" but that sentiment seems to get admonished if a Soldier or a unit scores 290 or above on their APFT.
I'm not saying that physical fitness isn't important because it is. However no one should measure the performance or worth of a Soldier on them running a 13:00 two-mile

Based upon a recent survey that found the Army was the most overweight branch of the Armed Forces I think the answer might be no, it is not overvalued. It is under practiced. I will have to read the article when I have some time.