Boot camp is made for you to succeed, not to fail. You'll never be asked to do something you can't handle. Here are 10 tips to getting the most out of boot camp:
1. Run, run, run. The better shape you are in, the easier boot camp will be. Be in shape before you get there.
2. Bring your game face. Get up for it. It can be the greatest time of your life. Don't show emotion; it's part of the game. Don't be a wimp.
3. Check your attitude. Drill sergeants and instructors want you to learn, because it may save your life someday. Fighting the game wastes energy.
4. Take care of your wingman. Take care of the person next to you. Remember boot camp is a team sport.
5. It's only temporary. Basic training doesn't last forever. There's a goal. You'll have downtime and do things that are fun. Your military career won't be like boot camp.
6. Know your benefits. You have free medical care. If you're hurt or sick, go to sick call.
7. Study early. Know the phonetic alphabet and other military knowledge before you go. For the Army, know the Initial Entry Training book and the Army general orders.
- Stew Smith Workouts
- Get an Airman's Guide
- Get a Coast Guardsman's Manual
- Get a Guidebook for Marines
- Get a Guide to Soldiers Basic Knowledge
- Get a Sailor's Guide (The Bluejacket's Manual)
8. Run with the pack. Don't draw attention to yourself. This is not the time to satisfy your need for attention.
9. It isn't personal. Don't take basic training personally. It's the instructor's job to stress you out. It is all part of the game. The winner knows this in advance.
10. Don't be a loner. Make friends because you are in it together. Keep in touch with family and friends at home, too. Don't let others in your unit be loners.
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