Promoting physical activity and capacity among people of call-up age

The Ministry of Defence has launched a national project that will incorporate the promotion of physical activity and capacity in a new way as part of the call-up process. The project aims to support and encourage young men of call-up age and women applying for voluntary military service towards more physically active lifestyles and better physical capacity to benefit both their service and the rest of their life.

The project to include the promotion of physical activity and capacity in the call-up process is part of the Finnish Government’s Get Finland Moving programme, which aims to boost physical activity in every age group.

Why is this project important?

The physical fitness of young adults has declined in the past few decades. People of call-up age score lower endurance and muscular fitness results than before, and overweight among young adults has become more common. These trends affect the overall wellbeing and coping of young people.

Good physical capacity is an important resource for every young person. It makes studies and work easier, supports mental health and prevents many diseases. Being sufficiently fit for conscript service helps individuals adjust to the service, reduces their risk of dropping out and prevents stress injuries. A capable reserve is also a key element of Finland’s defence capability.

Investing in the physical activity and capacity of young adults during the call-up process will support their wellbeing in the long run and promote public health.

Timetable and funding

The new practices introduced in the project will be piloted and improved in 2025 and 2026. The aim is to expand and consolidate them into nationwide permanent practices of the call-up process.

The project has a total budget of EUR 2 million for 2025–2026 (EUR 1 million per year), funded from the appropriations for the Get Finland Moving programme.

Extensive network of partners will ensure that targets are reached

The project is a collaboration of many partners, including:

• The defence administration, consisting of the Ministry of Defence and the Finnish Defence Forces (Defence Command Finland, Finnish Army Command and regional offices), coordinates the project and implements the changes to the call-up process.
• The National Defence Training Association of Finland (MPK) organises different kinds of training events, such as a course to help young adults to prepare for military service.
• Regional sports organisations offer physical activity counselling and guidance to individuals.
• Municipalities and educational institutions are important partners as they can reach young people and offer better sports opportunities.
• Other partners include the UKK Institute (research collaboration), the Into Association for Outreach Youth Work and Workshop Activities and private providers of sports services.

Key measures of the project

Young people are offered diverse tools and support for promoting their wellbeing and fitness:

1. Assessment of physical capacity: The call-up process includes an assessment of physical capacity which will give young people information about their physical capacity and individualised feedback and advice.
2. Physical activity counselling and guidance: Young people will be offered professional and motivating advice during and after the call-up process in collaboration with regional sports organisations and the National Defence Training Association of Finland. The aim is to help everyone find ways to move that best suit them.
3. MarsMars mobile app: The MarsMars app, developed by the Finnish Defence Forces, is a personal training guide and motivator. The app will be developed further during the project so that it will better serve young people.
4. Sports service voucher: A sports service voucher will be offer to those of call-up age first in the piloting regions and later nationwide. The voucher can be used in local sports services, and it allows young people to try different sports.
5. Web communications: A new website will be created where young people can easily find information, services and tips on physical activity, health and wellbeing in one place. The website will also advice young people on how to get ready for their military service.
6. Collaboration with local partners: There will be close collaboration with municipalities, sports clubs and companies so that young people can have access to versatile sports opportunities at a low threshold.
7. Research cooperation: It will be examined whether the call-up process could be included as part of the national LIITU follow-up study providing a comprehensive insight into the physical activity of children and young people in Finland.

Inquiries

Ville Isola, Senior Specialist, tel. +358 295 140 077, firstname.lastname(at)gov.fi