Final answer:
Soldiers learn the basics of health and fitness during their basic training where they undergo a process of resocialization, learning discipline, teamwork, and structured living. This process is rooted in military history and is essential for their service and post-military life.
Step-by-step explanation:
Soldiers receive the fundamentals for establishing and maintaining their personal health and fitness (H₂F) during their initial entry training, commonly referred to as basic training. In basic training, not only are they taught the necessary physical conditioning, but also the discipline, teamwork, and regimented lifestyle that becomes the core of military service. This environment fosters the resocialization process whereby soldiers learn to set aside personal goals for the mission of their unit, bond with one another, and develop pride in their accomplishments as a team.
The historical precedent for this can be traced back to the Revolutionary War era, with individuals like Friedrich Wilhelm von Steuben, who standardized training and discipline in the Continental Army. Military training involves structured schedules, cleanliness, precision in formations, and respect for the chain of command, including saluting superiors. Post-service, many soldiers apply these skills acquired through military discipline to their civilian careers, although transitioning back to civilian life can require a process of resocialization to adjust to a less structured environment.