Getting ready for boot camp

Slinner260 · 05-21-2007, 11:17 AM

Hey guys,

Basically I've got two and a half months before I ship off to the Citadel, which is basically bootcamp for the next four years of my life. I was wondering if anyone could give me some ideas for a workout plan. I'm currently 18, 5' 10", 182 pounds, and according to my scale 18% bf (However I think I'm going to get some calipers to check that). I'm in decent shape, and just want to lose a few extra pounds before I go down there, but not lose any of the strength I've spent the last year or so fighting for. I've focused on bulking so far, and am just looking for some ideas on how to balance it out. I have to add cardio in anyways, since I have to run quite alot when I'm down there, and push ups and sit ups are a given. Anyone have any finer pointers or hints? I know it just takes work, and I've been working hard so far, I just could use a shove in the right direction on caloric intake and protein amounts on off days. Thanks in advance

Slinner260 · 05-21-2007, 12:13 PM

Sorry if this is a little off topic, as far as the workout area goes. I originally meant to put it into the nutritional areas, but mixed them up. But any help would be appreciated as is, thanks

steve800 · 05-21-2007, 12:19 PM

running, various other cardio, machine circuit training.

I went to Marine Boot camp right after high school. I was HUGE as far as muscle mass went and suffered dearly for it. If I had it to over again I would focus on full body endurance exercises only. We didn't hit a gym once in boot camp but holding a 7 lb rifle with your arm extended and locked parallel to the deck will kill you. Not to mention the endless running, pushups, pullups, situps, mountain climbers, up/downs, etc etc etc... I could have deadlifted more than two of my drill instructors but my muscles were not conditioned for anything bootcamp through at me...

Deluxe24/7 · 05-21-2007, 12:58 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by steve800

running, various other cardio, machine circuit training.

I went to Marine Boot camp right after high school. I was HUGE as far as muscle mass went and suffered dearly for it. If I had it to over again I would focus on full body endurance exercises only. We didn't hit a gym once in boot camp but holding a 7 lb rifle with your arm extended and locked parallel to the deck will kill you. Not to mention the endless running, pushups, pullups, situps, mountain climbers, up/downs, etc etc etc... I could have deadlifted more than two of my drill instructors but my muscles were not conditioned for anything bootcamp through at me...

I totally agree. Anyone preparing to go to MCRD or one of the other branches' basic training should seriously focus on muscle endurance and cardio fitness rather than size and strength, although you will need to be as strong as you can be.
If I were preparing for the Citadel I would increase the sets and reps for all my training and throw in some pauses here and there (i.e. when doing push-ups stop and hold at the bottom of the movement, halfway up, and at lock out).
My best advice is to prepare yourself mentally. With the right attitude and state of mind you will accomplish any task set before you.

Thank you for serving our country!

Nyankees2004 · 05-21-2007, 02:20 PM

I was ripped to the tee Before I went to Marine Corps Bootcamp and could do all the physical stuff they threw at me, but it is the mental garbage you should prepare yourself for. Being mentally strong is 85% of the battle in those situations you are young enough to handle the physical and your body will adapt fast to the routine they will have you doing. Try pushing yourself farther than you ever have and then when you think you have no more go another round.

Semper Fi!!!!!!!!!!! "Pain is just weakness leaving the body"!!!!!!!!

Slinner260 · 05-21-2007, 09:00 PM

Thanks guys, I hear all of you. I'm not too big, like take a wrestler and add a year of weight lifting, and you have me. In reality, my biggest challenge will be avoiding hauling off and decking one of the upper classmen, I've been yelled at enough to know that it's just another mode of communication. (For those of you who think I'm blowing smoke, I'll be third generation Marine Corp on my father's side, and everyone on my mother's side was in the service too.) I'll start working in the push ups and lock outs, and will probably stop doing stuff like five sets of fives etc. If anyone has anything else for me, please let me know, it's always appreciated, Y'all seem to be a good lot, so I hope to stick around

Slinner260 · 05-21-2007, 09:07 PM

BTW, I was wondering if anyone knows a good pull up work out. I've got a few things lined up, but I was hopin y'all had a few good ideas. Sorry if I sounded like a smartass there, I know it'l be tough, and I know it'l hurt, but I've been preparing for it for the past umpteen years of my life. I'm not looking to just get through it, I'm looking to lead as I go through it. So if y'all have anything, absolutely anything, I'll take it in good heart, it never hurts to listen

JB17 · 07-13-2007, 04:43 AM

read below

JB17 · 07-13-2007, 04:45 AM

make sure you are comfortable with situps, (last year manyppl neglected them and suffered later) Pushups = you will be able to crank out a good amount fairly soon.
BIG THING HAVE THE RIGHT ATTITUDE.
9 months is a long time and does fatigue you mentally.
Good luck
KNOB!

nutsy54 · 07-13-2007, 11:41 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Slinner260

BTW, I was wondering if anyone knows a good pull up work out.

Just adjust the starting point to your current ability. . .