All branches of the military require forces to be in optimum physical condition at all times. From basic training on, having combat-ready troops is integral to the success of any country's military. All soldiers, sailors and troops stay in shape by performing regular training exercises. Various body weight exercises that can be done anywhere at anytime are a staple of all branches of the military.
Running
Troops often run for exercise, whether it is in basic training or as part of everyday military life. Military personnel are timed over a 1.5- or 2-mile run as part of basic training, and often wear full gear and carry weapons during runs as part of training once they are in.
Push-Ups
Push-ups are a basic exercise used for both training and discipline in the military. Push-ups strengthen your chest, shoulders, triceps and, to a lesser extent, abdominals. Varying the push-up hand position to wide or narrow works different muscles and makes the exercise more challenging.
Curl-Ups or Sit-Ups
The full sit-up or curl-up strengthens your abdominal muscles and helps create a strong core, which is important for daily military life. A sit-up is performed by lying on your back with your legs bent and feet flat on the floor. You can cross your arms on your chest or place your hands behind your head. From that position, use your abdominal muscles to curl your torso up into a seated position. Sometimes the exercise is performed with a partner holding your feet.
Squats
Performing squats will create power and endurance in your legs, which will benefit you in all aspects of military life. Start with your hands resting on your thighs, and lower your body down until your hands are even with your knees, then raise back up. You can also leave your hands on your hips, or lift them over your head for more of a challenge.
Rope Climbing
Climbing ropes builds a good deal of upper body strength. Pulling your own body weight up a rope works the muscles of your arms, back, hands and abdominals. Securing the rope between the instep of one foot and the bottom of the other will allow you to move up the rope like an inchworm and maintain your grip.
Stretches
Even with the toughness and intensity achieved soldiers and sailors, they must still stretch properly to avoid injury. Perform a wide range of stretches to loosen your body up in preparation for the exercises to come. Stretch your arms, back, chest, neck, quadriceps, hamstrings and calves.
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