Getting physically prepared for the military as a high school junior

I'm a junior in high school and I'm pretty set on joining the military after graduation. Does anyone have advice on how I can start to get in shape now to prepare for training and physical requirements?

First, kudos for wanting to prepare yourself physically for the military. There's no doubt that military training can be physically demanding, so it's wise to start conditioning your body now.

One key area to focus on is cardiovascular fitness. Service members do a lot of running, so incorporating cardio workouts like jogging, biking, or swimming into your exercise routine can really aid in improving your overall endurance.

Next, you'll need to enhance your strength and muscle endurance. This includes exercises such as push-ups, pull-ups, and sit-ups, which are part of the military's physical fitness test. Start with a few repetitions and gradually increase the number as your strength improves. Don't forget to also work on lifting heavier items to build overall body strength.

Additionally, flexibility is often overlooked but is a key aspect of physical fitness. Stretch regularly to increase flexibility, reduce the risk of injury, and improve performance in other exercises.

Finally, it's important not only to exercise but also to maintain a healthy diet. Make sure you're eating a balanced diet full of lean proteins, complex carbohydrates, and healthy fats to fuel your workouts and promote muscle recovery.

Keep in mind, it's always best to consult with a fitness professional or a doctor before starting any intensive workout program, especially if you have any health concerns.

The key is to set realistic goals, maintain a regular exercise schedule, and to keep up the motivation. You're embarking on a commendable path and this preparation will certainly help you with the physical requirements needed in the military. Good luck with your training!