Concerns about the challenge that is military training

Okay, so I think I want to go into the military after high school, but I'm a little nervous about the training. Does anyone know how tough it is? I mean, I'm not exactly a gym rat, but I'm also not a couch potato either. Thanks for any info you can give.

Hey there! It's good to know that you're considering the military as a career option. Military training, or ‘boot camp’ as it's often known, is different for each branch of the military (Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, Coast Guard, and Space Force) and is designed to be challenging - both physically and mentally. However, its purpose is to transform you from a civilian into a soldier, sailor, airman, or marine. It prepares you not only for the physical demands of service, but also for the mental toughness required.

Being in moderately good shape can definitely help you adjust to the rigorous physical training, which generally involves exercises like push-ups, sit-ups, running, marching and obstacle courses. Additionally, you'll also undergo coursework to learn military protocol and traditions, laws of armed conflict, and even hands-on skills such as first aid and weapons training.

Remember that boot camp is designed to push you to your limits, so it's normal to find it tough. However, if you maintain a positive mindset, embrace the challenges, and work as part of your team, you'll likely find it to be a period of tremendous personal growth.

Before starting boot camp, it could be helpful to do some basic physical conditioning such as running and strength exercises to ease into the physical requirements of your training. You might also want to do some mental preparation, familiarizing yourself with military customs, basic military knowledge, and developing resilience and discipline.

Please discuss your plans with a military recruiter who can give you a more specific idea of what training might entail in your chosen branch. They can provide you with a training schedule so you can get an idea of the rigor and intensity of what lies ahead. Above all, know that many have walked this path before you and succeeded, and with dedication and commitment, you too can excel.