It's a noble aspiration to join the Army, but it's important to have realistic expectations. Basic training tests your physical fitness and pushes you to the limits of your capabilities. You can't just jump in cold. To fully prepare for Army boot camp, start training before you enter the service. That way, it won't be as much of a shock to your body, and you'll be better able to handle what is asked of you.
Step 1
Run every day for at least 30 minutes. If you're not very fit, start out power walking and mix in minute-long sprints to get your body used to the activity and to build endurance. Once you're in basic training, you'll be required to run several miles each morning. You will need to complete two miles in 16:36 minutes if you're between 17 and 21 and 17:30 minutes if between 22 and 26 as a part of your fitness next, Military.com states.
Step 2
Practice sit-ups several times a week. Perform complete sit-ups, not crunches, and have someone hold your feet down while you lift up to touch your elbows to your knees, as this is how you will be tested once you're in boot camp, GoArmy.com states. Start out doing as many repetitions as you can and increase that number over time until you can complete 47 sit-ups if you're between 17 and 21 and 43 sit-ups if you're between 22 to 26.
Step 3
Engage in circuit and obstacle-course training to further improve your endurance and strength. Prepare for boot camp by setting up your own obstacle course at home. Work on belly crawling, running, walking quickly and climbing a rope or wall; in training, these activities will test how you switch from one activity to the next and how long your endurance holds out. Alternate between a range of activities in a short period to get quicker on your feet and improve your reaction time.
Step 4
Practice pushups daily using proper form. Place your weight on your hands at just outside of shoulder-width apart and on your toes. Lower your body until your chest nearly touches the floor and your elbows form a 90-degree angle. Push up and repeat. To pass the training test, men and women between the ages of 17 and 21 will need to do 35 and 13 push-ups, respectively, while men and women between 22 and 26 will need to do 31 and 11 push-ups.
Things You'll Need
- Climbing rope
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