Why is it essential for sailors to have a healthy body fat percentage?

A healthy body fat percentage is vital for sailors primarily because it enhances physical performance and reduces health risks. Maintaining an appropriate body fat level ensures that sailors can perform their duties effectively, as higher levels of body fat can lead to decreased endurance, strength, and agility, which are critical for various military tasks. Additionally, a healthy body fat percentage is linked to a lower risk of chronic health conditions, such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and metabolic issues, which can impair one's ability to serve.

Optimal physical performance allows sailors to meet the demands of their duties, whether it involves physical challenges, operational readiness, or emergency situations. Furthermore, maintaining a healthy body fat percentage supports overall well-being and longevity in service, which is crucial for sustaining operational effectiveness in the Navy.

The other options, while they may reflect positive outcomes of maintaining a healthy lifestyle, do not encompass the primary focus of physical readiness and health risk management that body fat percentage directly relates to in the context of military service.