Clinical Report: Enhanced Nutritional Habits in Future Sailors Using mHealth App

Overview

The study evaluated the effectiveness of the mobile health application CoachMePlus (CM+) in enhancing the readiness of Future Sailors (FS) in the U.S. Navy. Results indicated improvements in knowledge related to military training and nutrition, with a reported graduation rate from basic training.

Background

Recruitment and retention of military personnel face challenges due to a limited pool of qualified candidates and rising competition from private industries. The Navy's Delayed Entry Program (DEP) aims to prepare non-prior service enlistees for military life, emphasizing the need for improved health habits among recruits. Mobile health applications like CM+ may assist in enhancing dietary and physical readiness.

Data Highlights

Key Findings

• 92.4% of Future Sailors successfully graduated from basic training.
• Knowledge improvements in GMT and nutrition were statistically significant (p < 0.001).
• 64% of FS recorded dietary intake for at least 7 days, reporting lower fiber and higher fat and sodium intake.
• Over 80% of participants rated their self-efficacy for diet and exercise as “rather certain” or “very certain.”
• Real-time tracking and feedback were highlighted as key benefits of the CM+ app.

Clinical Implications

The use of the CM+ app may enhance the readiness of Future Sailors by improving their nutritional knowledge and habits.

Conclusion

The CM+ mobile health application improved the readiness and nutritional understanding of Future Sailors.

Related Resources & Content

1. Frontiers in Digital Health, 2026 -- Enhanced Nutritional Habits in Future Sailors
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6. DoD Physical Fitness Body Composition Program
7. VA/DoD Clinical Practice Guideline for the Management of Adult Overweight and Obesity
8. Frontiers | Improved dietary intake and readiness among US Navy Future Sailors following mobile health application use