When you decide to join the military, the idea of going through boot camp may fill you with dread. You could have heard horror stories about boot camp that may or may not be true. Mentally and physically preparing beforehand can help you get through the more physically trying aspects of boot camp. Speak to military personnel to get tips on how to improve your fitness level to do well during training.
Develop a Running Program
The simplest thing you can do to prepare physically for boot camp is to begin a running routine. If you are new to fitness, aim to begin a regular running routine at least five months prior to training. You should run at least five days a week for at least one hour per workout. Set goals for each run since you'll need to beat a certain time to complete training. Depending on age and gender, you must complete a two-mile run in 16 to 20 minutes during the Army's physical fitness test.
Do Conditioning Drills
Performing conditioning drills can help prepare you for boot camp. For instance, during a sample conditioning drill provided by the U.S. Army, you need to provide five reps of 10 different exercises including lunges, rows, pushups, situps and high jumpers. Spend 20 to 30 minutes each day working on these types of strength-training exercises in preparation for boot camp.
Perfect Your Form
Work on your form to get ready for boot camp. The boot camp instructor will not only want you to do exercise quickly, but correctly. When you are doing pullups, make sure your spine stays straight, you are looking at the ceiling during reps and your chin clears the bar before lowering the body. Keep track of the position of your hands during pushups. They should be slightly more than shoulder-width apart.
Learn to Pace Yourself
You need to pace yourself when attempting to complete the situp requirements for boot camp. According to Military.com, a good standard to strive for is to complete 80 situps in two minutes. Instead of rushing through the exercise at the start of your workout, you should aim to reach 20 situps every 30 seconds.
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