Basic Combat Training, the 10-week course for new U.S. Army recruits, turns civilians into soldiers. Recruits learn Army values and how to be part of a team while becoming physically fit, a necessity for combat readiness. The regimented daily routine starts before dawn each morning and keeps recruits challenged and busy until "lights out."
Big Changes in Basic Training
In 2010, under the direction of Lt. Gen. Mark Hertling, Army officials made many changes to traditional basic training exercise and nutrition to deal with the needs of recruits, who increasingly report for duty out-of-shape, overweight and prone to injury. Between 1995 and 2008, 70 percent of potential recruits failed the physical fitness test, according to a report titled "Too Fat to Fight," written by retired generals and admirals who attribute this statistic to a lifetime of inactivity and poor nutrition. Basic training is still as challenging and rigorous as ever, according to officials.
Phase One
Phase one of Basic Combat Training is called the red phase, and focuses heavily on teamwork. Recruits are given haircuts and uniforms, and are schooled in the Seven Army Core Values and Army heritage. Phase one also includes basic physical fitness testing and training, nuclear and biological defense training, and that most-feared recruit activity, rappelling for the first time from the confidence tower.
Phase 2
Phase two of Army basic training is also known as the white phase. This phase focuses on building confidence and learning vital soldier skills. As a recruit in phase two, you'll learn basic rifle marksmanship, and participate in tactical marching, challenging obstacle courses, situational training exercises and more training in rappelling from the confidence tower.
Phase Three
Phase three, called the blue phase, is the last phase of Army basic training. In this phase, recruits learn to handle hand grenades and automatic weapons, and put their new skills to use during the Night Infiltration Course. Tactical marches and field training continue. Phase three culminates with a formal graduation ceremony, also known as Rites of Passage.
Nutrition
In 2010, the Army's basic training mess hall had an overhaul to help out-of-shape recruits reach a healthy weight and learn good nutrition habits. Gone are fried foods and sugary soda. The new menu includes milk, whole grains, nutrient-dense entrees, low-fat yogurt, and plenty of fruits and vegetables. Eggs, bacon and gravy are still available along with these healthier options, according to Lt. Col. Sonya Cable, a registered dietitian for the Army. Recruits also take an hour-long course in "performance nutrition," taught by drill sergeants.
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