Global Scout, you are certainly correct that blanket statements are often inaccurate. By no means does my observation apply to all runners in the elite category and there were certainly plenty of service members that could neither run nor hump a pack. My statement is purely anecdotal but occurred enough times for me to take note.

Actually though, since you mention triathletes I trained for and participated in several. Not only was it great fun but I considered it fantastic training since the body had to adapt to more than one discipline. I also think the summer biathlon (running and shooting) superior training since in really did simulate the stresses on both the mind and body that one might find in any number of situations. There are thousands of ways to train physically, it's just finding those that work best for the individual.

And always think mission…