Physical fitness was a vital part of every soldier's training at Camp Adair, regardless of his military specialty. Whether a GI was training to be a cook, clerk, supply sergeant, or infantryman, everyone was expected to meet the Army's physical standards. During the ten-week training program, soldiers participated in daily conditioning that built strength, endurance, and stamina for combat.

By the end of the course, every soldier had to pass a series of physical fitness tests. These included push-ups from the ground, a 300-yard run, a 75-yard piggyback carry performed at a run to simulate rescuing a wounded comrade, and a four-mile march while carrying full field equipment. The march had to be completed in 50 minutes. These demanding requirements ensured that every GI, regardless of his assignment, was physically prepared to perform under the harsh conditions of wartime service.