Posted on Oct 17, 2017
LCpl Ben Spalding
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Ok so I have two years to get in shape. I was in the Marines but I am going for Army to serve again. I want to become an officer. Already on that track for my degree. Any knowledge on the prior service training at Leonardwood would be awesome. Any work out routines would also be great for fast weight loss. Thanks.
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SSG Field Artillery Firefinder Radar Operator
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As for the weight you have two options. Maintain a steady diet and do a fitness program, maybe one from Bodybuilding.com (Do a cutting program since that's your main goal) or go oldschool Marine Corps and Run and do Calisthenics. The aerobic activity will help you cut calories regardless.

Now for some advice in becoming an officer, don't forget your roots. You started out enlisted, remember all those things that seemed a little off? Now you have an opportunity to change them, but don't go over the top. Remember another thing is you're going into a different branch. I recommend saying that you were a Marine as little as possible unless it comes up. I know some Army -> Marines and they said that the Marines that came into the Army were the most narcissistic bunch. it's fine to say you were enlisted and served in their shoes before and you can bring up the Marine Corps. Just don't be obnoxious about it, I.E The Marine LCpl's I served with were 10 times better than you etc. Also good luck and congratulations once you get in brother!
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LCpl Ben Spalding
LCpl Ben Spalding
>1 y
Hahaha thank you. I was thinking the same thing they will find out regardless I have marine tattoos everywhere. But I will be humble. I try to be that at the very least. My dad was enlisted Army he has given me tons of advice so with this and that. I think I’ll be ready. Fitness is coming first though.
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MSG Frederick Otero
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Ok, I have been there and done that. First forget fast and just be consistent in your exercise routine. Depending on how out of shape you are start walking everyday come rain or shine. Increase the length and the speed. ( i was way out of shape so i walked for a full month.) Jogging came next then running so i could meet the PT standard. I filled in with the pt before or after i'd been running. ie push up, sit up, overhead bars or what ever passes for qualification exercises these day. Start slow and add one or two reps to your initial starting maximum every other day. I know that there are other ways of getting in shape but to get into basic shape this will get your mind and body into the routine of exercise and from there have at it with a program that can challenge your goals. One caution though, avoid going all out and getting injured as an injury can not only set you back but could hurt your career goals; nothing counts if you don't finish on your feet. I saw many soldiers destroyed trying to break records on obstacle courses and road marches. Good luck and after Marine Boot Camp i have no doubt you have the discipline. Eat right and forget smoking.
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MSG Frederick Otero
MSG Frederick Otero
>1 y
Please make sure that you are fully recovered and medically clear to start an exercise program. I would be interested in your progress so check in every so often.
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LCpl Ben Spalding
LCpl Ben Spalding
>1 y
Will do. I want to get back in uniform so bad. It sucks out here in Civ-Div.
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SPC Infantryman
SPC (Join to see)
>1 y
Ditto on taking it slow and allowing yourself enough time to recover. I'm also getting back in shape after 11+ years and I got all kinds of injuries. Some injuries are just unavoidable due to age and neglect. I'd also recommend finding a running partner or group. If you're still going to be in school for the next two years then sign up for a ROTC PT class. Maybe my university is the exception but these people are running 3 to 5 miles every other day with the occasional 7 mile run. They do ruck marches too and afternoon strength training at the university gym. It's only a 1 credit class and you don't need to be enrolled in the ROTC program or wear a PT uniform. It's all cadet run so you won't get the military atmosphere but at least you got people to run with. I also recommend yoga or some kind of stretching routine, not the kind you warm up with. But actual stretching exercises to improve your range of motion, stability and control.
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MSG Frederick Otero
MSG Frederick Otero
>1 y
SPC (Join to see) - Yoga has so many benefits glad you mentioned it.
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SP5 Joel McDargh
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It would be an inspiration and motivation to the troops you serve; not to mention the experience you would bring. I would be more than proud to serve under the leadership of such an officer.
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LCpl Ben Spalding
LCpl Ben Spalding
>1 y
Thank you sir. I am real humbled from your words of encouragement. Thank you again.
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