How to get in shape quickly for basic training?

Has she discussed her concerns with her recruiting officer? I would think that they would have a training program for her - or at least a list of the guidelines she needed to meet so she knows what to work towards.

I did Marine Corps boot camp but I'd assume the other services would be similar, just easier ;-) . My suggestion is lots of running (get up to 3-4 miles or so) plus lots of body weight calisthenics - push-ups, running in place, jumping jacks, mountain climbers, burpess -- as fast sa you can for as long as you can.

In the end, basic training is designed to seem tough yet it really isn't that tough. Many come in really out of shape and 2-3 months later you leave in slightly better shape.

I had about 6 months before I could leave for the Army because I was in the delayed entry program. I did exactly what they would do on the PT test. Push-ups, sit-ups, and 2- mile run. Everyday. When I got to basic they dropped a lot of the females right away...some were actually crying because they could not hold themselves up for a few minutes...:frown: It's best that she doesn't embarrass herself by being one of THOSE women.

I was in 10 years ago, so I assume things are easier now. But still.

I had about 6 months before I could leave for the Army because I was in the delayed entry program. I did exactly what they would do on the PT test. Push-ups, sit-ups, and 2- mile run. Everyday. When I got to basic they dropped a lot of the females right away...some were actually crying because they could not hold themselves up for a few minutes...:frown: It's best that she doesn't embarrass herself by being one of THOSE women.

I was in 10 years ago, so I assume things are easier now. But still.

^^^^ditto^^^^ It hasn't gotten any easier.....I see the troops daily and the ones crying are still the ones who didn't get into shape before going to basic. My recruiter actually worked out with me briefly to teach me what to do. Today you can also go on youtube and checkout what is there. Going in "cold" is a bad choice. Good luck and thanks for serving, you'll be glad and proud you made this choice.

For the best info, go to the source: Military.com

http://www.military.com/military-fitness/workouts/prepare-yourself-for-boot-camp

I would look at the the various articles there, and also the ones about the fitness test prep.
It has been 40 years, but I recall doing a lot of jumping jacks and burpees in my navy bc. Dunno if those are still included.

Another option is the "100 pushups" site, and do their programs for pushups, pullups, squats, dips, etc.
As for running, couch to 5k to start, then the military.com to get the time down.

They have all the info on what the minimum standard to pass the pft is for different branches. For example,
Army is Female age 17-21 19 pushups in 2 minutes, 53 situps in 2 minutes 18:54 2 mile run.
(minimal standard, should train to beat these handily)
Mike

This is for my dd. She is at a good weight, and also pretty strong for a girl, but definitely needs to seriously whip herself into shape before she leaves. She is looking both at apps for tracking (I suggested probably endomondo for running) but also a PLAN laid out to help her know what to do. We are looking at getting her a membership to the Y, so she will have access to track, pool, and weights. Would really appreciate the input from others, particularly those who have BTDT (esp. females).

THANKS!!!

I am in the military take it from me someone who weighed 190 ps 17 women and got out 145 ps 5/6 Juniors, its hard to prep for basic training because its all mental. You will be woken up at 0400 to start your day and your day will not end until 10 pm keep in mind you are moving the WHOLE time. as frighting as this may sound you will leave in the best shape of your life and each day will bring you one step closer to achieving the best possible you. Physically they want you to be able to at least run a mile and a half in atleast 14 minutes and that is on the very slow end boarder line failing. Sit ups/push ups learn to love them because every time they yell, that will be your punishment. 60 sit ups per minute is a good place to be, 30 push ups per minute.

If you smoke or drink soda i suggest you suit now, it will just make your life that much more miserable if your trying to kick the addiction while in training because by no chance will you be able to smoke or drink. Get used to water...yummm

Last piece of advice, everyone has to look standardized so if her recruiter tells her to pack everything its just because they need there fun to lol pack light extremely light, dont bring clothes you wont get to look cute and wear your own. One outfit thats all you'll need because day one they take your bags lock them in a closet and you wont see them again for at least 6 weeks. Dont wear anything to make you stand out when you show up either learn to blend in if you stand out it gives them reason to pick on you. Well thats all I can think of for now, if she has more questions just message me, I remember training like it was yesterday.

Thanks for all of the info on here ladies! I have been seriously thinking about joining the Air force, and all of this information is very helpful to me too! THanks OP for the post!

Which branch?

Air Force .. She's probably OK already.
Navy .. Ditto
Army .. Body weight exercises plus running. See recruiter
Marines .. Same as above, but they have a pull-up minimum as well.

If it's Army, there is a 10 push-up requirement to get into basic when you get there.

If your schedule allows, the fastest way to get in shape is to train twice a day. I'd get up early, do pushups and situps, then run 3+ miles. Do the same in the p.m.

Increase the distance and speed every week, and take no more than 1 rest day per week. Throw in jump rope, sprints, pullups, burpees, etc. to keep it challenging.

If you have access to a backpacking pack, do a 2-3 hour hike with a 40 lb pack once a week. Up the distance as that gets easy.

You'll be running circles around the guys.