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Army fighting fat, embracing health foods, fitness

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(The U.S. Army on Flickr Creative Commons,photo by Benjamin Faske)
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FORT LEONARD WOOD, Mo. – The U.S. Army plans to get new recruits into better shape with a revamped approach to health, fitness and diet at basic training.

Gone are the five-mile runs, bayonet drills and fatty foods in the chow line. New recruits will now work on core strength, injury prevention and healthy eating habits.

Army leaders are unveiling the new approach Wednesday morning at Missouri's Fort Leonard Wood.

The most visible changes will be seen in mess halls. Milk and juice dispensers will replace soda fountains and whole grains will be substituted for white bread and pasta.

It's the first substantial change to basic fitness training in the Army in 30 years.

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