Got What It Takes To Be A Navy SEAL? Important Things To Keep In Mind

With the recent special operations raid on Usama bin Laden’s Abbottabad compound, there’s been a large up-tick in the popularity of everything SEAL, including the stringent training of the SEALs . There’s no doubt about it; these men suffer and endure through some of the most dangerous and physically and mentally taxing military courses in the world, and it all begins with the PST (physical screening test).

At the core of any Navy SEAL training program should be a strong foundation of calisthenics and running, which will prepare you not only for the physical screening test but for the extreme physical challenges of BUD/S (Basic Underwater Demolition/SEAL school). You can see the minimum PST requirements about halfway down the page here.

Keep in mind that these represent the absolute minimum, and candidates scoring this low on the physical screening test have a miniscule chance of successfully completing BUD/S. This is due in part to not meeting necessary scores on evolutions and/or overuse injuries from lack of proper fitness. Many strive for 80-100 pushups and situps, 15+ pullups, and a couple minutes under on both the swim and the run.

Another popular consideration is to attend a SEAL inspired training course .This affords you the best chance to get a real taste of both BUD/S training, and also a feel for what it’s like to be on a team. The Navy doesn’t have the same type of combat arms programs as the Army and Marines, so it’s a very good idea to attend a camp and “try it on” to make sure you’re ready and that this is something you really want to do.

Alternatively, it’s still a great option for those who are looking to really push themselves to new limits, both in physical and mental stamina. This type of training is designed to take participants past their normal physical limitations and to demonstrate that with the proper mindset, the body is capable of going further and pushing harder than many people think they are capable of. Of course, remember to consult a physician before beginning any exercise program or training regimine.