<p>toadstool - being physically fit for a service academy is important. The service academies are very physical places. Being a soldier is very physical. Officers set and example for the soldiers and sailors and airmen that they lead.
I would not say that any minor physical weakness makes one a target during summer training, attitude makes one a target.<br>
My daughter made it through beast and she had fun, for most of it.</p>
<p>Being an athlete is a plus for attending a service academy. Every cadet is an athlete is absolutely true. Athletics is required. A strong mind and a strong body are fine attributes for any soldier, especially an officer. Playing team sports offers many benefits - they teach leadership, striving for a goal, teamwork, dedication, fortitude and instill the desire to win. </p>
<p>It may surprise you that the Service academies are full of cadets and midshipmen who are both brainy and brawny.</p>