Corps History

The Corps was born in 1860 as part of the military reforms instigated as a result of the Crimean War. Major Frederick Hammersley and 12 specially selected NCO’s (known as the Twelve Apostles) underwent a specialised course of physical instruction led by PT theorist Archibald MacLaren at his Oxford gymnasium. On graduation they became the nucleus of what was then called the Army Gymnastic Staff (AGS).

Members of the AGS were established at newly built gymnasiums where they trained other soldiers in what they had learned. Others were embedded with Army units where they led soldiers in fencing, gymnastics and other physical training, as well as organising recreational sports. Sickness and mortality rates soon decreased across the Army and the reforms were solidified in the 1864 Report on Gymnastic Instruction in the Army.

During the World Wars the AGSs played an important role in training the many new recruits, as well as ensuring that soldiers on the battlefield remained in fighting condition. Instructors in the First World War played a crucial role in maintaining morale and physical condition in the extreme environments of the trenches by keeping soldiers fit and mentally occupied through sports, PT and bayonet fighting. In the Second World War the AGS was given Corps status as the Army Physical Training Corps and trained specialist units such as Special Forces and parachutists, often following them into action and serving with distinction under enemy fire.

Since the end of WW2, members of the APTC have deployed with British Forces around the World and play an important role in maintaining the ongoing fitness of the Army. As training has developed so has the range of duties carried out by the Corps, with Instructors specialising in Adventurous Training, teaching soldiers to overcome adversary in non-combat situations such as through kayaking, climbing and skiing. Other instructors have specialised in Exercise rehabilitation, helping soldiers recover from injury through fitness therapy. This played an important role in helping soldier recover from injuries sustained in operations in Iraq and Afghanistan.

In 2010 the Corps celebrated its 150th Anniversary and to mark the occasion was granted the Royal title by the Queen. Today, the RAPTC continues to be an integral part of the modern British Army.

Corps Titles

The RAPTC has undergone several changes in title since forming in 1860 as the Army Gymnastic Staff. These reflect its changing role and importance in the British Army. Under every title, it has worn the crossed swords and crown cap badge and has carried out its primary role of maintaining the fitness and fighting capacity of the British soldier.