Aim High Program for Youth in the Louisiana National Guard Challenge to Improve Readiness and Health

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are evaluating the Louisiana National Guard Youth Challenge Program YCP to understand the needs of its leadership and junior cadet population regarding nutrition, fitness, sleep, mental health, and resilience. This study aims to use the findings to develop a skills training program that supports the health and readiness of young individuals preparing to join the Army. The research is designed as an interventional study focusing on health behaviors. The study involves an integrated physical and mental optimization training program called the Aim High Program. This program includes environmental interventions, nutrition guidance, physical activity, sleep improvement, and stress reduction strategies to help participants build positive coping skills. The program is intended to be scalable and maintained as a core tool for military pre-recruits. Participants will be assessed over a 16-month period for various outcomes including height, weight, body fat, depression, anxiety, body esteem, coping ability, perceived stress, and eating competence. Additional measures include knowledge, attitudes, and program satisfaction. The study will monitor health behaviors and wellness to inform and improve ongoing training efforts.

Aim High: Readiness & Meeting the Standards in Military Pre-Recruits