British troops too fat to fight, 30 percent fail basic fitness test

London, Jul 5 (ANI): British Army soldiers are too fat to fight, with just two thirds of soldiers passing the basic fitness, according to an army report.

The report points out that many British soldiers are too out of shape to serve on the front line.

The damning report said obesity was a "significant problem for the armed forces" and was slowing down Britain's war effort against the Taliban, the Daily Star reports.

Army chiefs introduced tougher training standards last October. But the Ministry of Defence report shows they have had little impact with just 70 percent passing the latest fitness tests - well below the 90 percent target.

The test consists of a 1.5 mile run and as many press-ups and sit-ups as possible in two minutes.

Concerned commanders blamed the poor attitude of young recruits.

One officer said: "It is more of a challenge with the youth of today."

A MOD spokesman insisted: "Levels of fitness are improving. But more work is needed and is in hand to address this." (ANI)