nutter
hijacking....
I tried fartlekking but I couldn't get a match lit what with all the wind, so could you carry my bag mate? its a bit on the heavy side
'72, what's the DS opinion on suppliments in general (protein/carbs/glutamin/creatine etc) for people in selection training?
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155
I'm in the UK and could theoretically do selection now, but i know i am not fit enough for some of the stuff that would be thrown our way. I reckon I wont attempt it for at least a year and probably longer as want to get to an age where people will a) take me more seriously b) be more at the age where you are at a 'physical peak'. Its only two chances at it right...?
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1fortheroad
hello there all, going for R.I.D soon. starting bergan training now, if you dont mind 1972 i need some advice on a good bergan for training and should i use army reg boots, not been to pushy also any good tips for bergan training.thank you in advance.
best of luck to all.
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1972
1fortheroad, What age are you, what is your current level of fitness?

Don't try and get used to a comfy bergan, use an army one. But your boots are a different story, a lot of the lads buy Lowa boots, and they seem to be a favourite.

I did selection in Danners but they don't suit everyone. Its all about going into Silvermans or somewhere like and seeing how they feel. Everyones foot is different and just the same as trainers some you get on with and some you don't.

72
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geezerfella
Here, try eatin pies. Drinkin at least 10 times the daily recommended allowance of alchohol per day and chin anyone that gets in yer way. Also never give up. Say bollox to em.. Crack on and then get eatin more pies and drinkin lager. If that doesnt work. Try 1972's way. I must say my way may work for you but you might end up a fat c*nt like me.
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Verity

geezerfella wrote:
never give up

That's the quote of the day. What a gem.
Those three words need to become
'who you are' and not just something you think.
Failure is not an option. Absorb 'never give up' into your head and heart and become a resilient man.
Tea's ready..and no more pies for you geezer!

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jockaneese
quick question if your wanting to apply in the newcastle /scotland area (im borders both are close) when is the next time they are recruting is there a jan selection or will i have to wait to aug to start?
cheers guys

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geezerfella

Dont join them lot. There tosh. Move house.

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1972
Jockaneese,

Geezerfella is right, move house !!

If you go to Newcastle you will find the journeys down south are a lot easier. Don't go north to come south !!

A new intake is around Jan time, click on my website on my profile and get the number to phone.

See you on the next course.

72'
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moth1978

Hmm, just popped back in. Clearly I've been asking daft questions....
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Verity
Hi Moth
Verity, why don't you put your feet up. You seem to be making an awful lot of tea! By way of a thank you for the links how about a cuppa.... Milk & sugar?

Sorry I didn't say hello mate...thanks but I'll make the tea if that's ok (it's just about as good as it gets around here when you're a girl!)
First of all thanks for the assistance, keeping an eye on what you guys have been saying the past few weeks has been an eye opener. Have been thinking about selection for some time now...

Excellent! How's your fitness currently?


Hmm, just popped back in. Clearly I've been asking daft questions....

Not daft at all to you as it affects whether you can keep your current job or not..but neither of those two questions can be answered on this board. Sorry pet. Give your local unit a ring and have a chat (the number is on both mine and 72's profile)
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1fortheroad
cheers for info, im 27 can run 10 miles in 75 min includes hills. i train 4-6 times a week, also do manual job so sometimes recovery is a bitch the next day. could do with any tips to gain a few pounds cant seem to put it on at all.
thank you in advance.
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moth1978
Verity, Was pretty good until about a year ago... Used to do 10 miles in around an hour and ten.. Anyway getting back into it after a fair bit of time abroad, too many expense meals..
I see there's a fair bit here on the bleep test. Have to be honest have never done one of these, what's involved?Will give local unit a call and see what they say...Thanks for the reply...
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Verity

You may have to wait a couple of days until staff is around to answer you-
I only cover tea, sympathy and being bossy!
Yes do ring them and have a chat and '72 will certainly help you with any fitness training questions you may have- so do ask away chaps.
Good Luck!

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blobmeister
Hi 1972 Me and my friends got around to talking about fitness and sas today and my one friend that the sas are "extremely flexible" - i said as in touching your toes etc? and he said an sas man could bend round and touch his ass probably lol - so can flexibleness (if thats a word!) help with fitness and sport etc (i want to get into more fitness and some sports like swimming again so just wandering if flexiblness is a good thing)
and he also said that , obviously you get the odd huge one but he said most are suprisingly wirey?? but basically, im 5ft 11 (just) and 11.2 stone - and i could never imagine someone like me getting in the sas (not that i would as i dont have the mental ability............or fitness for that matter lol) - and supposedly they carry bergens at 5 or 6 stone?? even more?? thats more than half my weight! soi was just wandering are any guys even that kind of weight in the sas, pretty amazing if they are! my friend also said that although sas guys dont look it, although they may not be arnold scwarzenegger look alikes, they are extremely strong , even if they dont look like a muscle man - but then again to go against this i saw the fitness book by chris ryan, i might buy it, and he looks absolutely massive on it! kind of like the size of a rugby player, all toned and really muscley!

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1972
Moth1978,

Sorry for not replying to your message earlier, I am waiting for mens health editor to come along and offer me a tidy sum for advice ! ha ha ha

Verity is right, the questions you need answering can only be answered by sitting down with the DS, Selection Dates and your diary. As for fitness, you have had it before, so to get it back would not be a problem. You have the desire, its the time training you have to put in that will get you there.

Call your nearest sqn and they will help. 72
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1972
1-4theroad How to gain a few pounds ?? why ?? how heavy are you? You sound like you have a good level of fitness to start with. You will be training with a bergan so your body will become acustomed to carrying the weight.

72
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1972
Blobmeister, I think you and your mates need to get out more for a start !! ha ha ha
"extremely flexible" Most of the lads touch their toes but only when picking the soap up in the shower ! they are all very close !

Flexibility comes from stretching after training and also doing specific flexibility training. I encourage all the recruits and squadron members alike to put as much flexibility work into their training that time can afford them, but some people, no matter how fit can struggle with flexibility. Look at Martial Arts. The lads who partake in that have a good level of flexibility due to the types of positions they have to get themselve into. As for ALL sas men being like that, I think your mate is reading too many books.

The physical attributes of the squadron lads varies from 10 1/2 stone through to 17 stone.
If you saw a line up of all blokes and asked to pick which ones were in the sas you probably wouldn't pick many of them at all. There is no specific mould that the blokes are generated from apart the mental strength to overcome the physical attributes to get through the course.

Chris Ryan has been out of the regiment for some time now, although he was always a physically strong bloke before, he now (with all of the money from his books) has time to be in the gym everyday, eat the right foods and be totally specific with his training.

Hope this answers most of your points.

Oh yes, and try it, you might just have the mental strength !!

72
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monkey01

1972 & co, I now have a bit of a dilemma, I have just recieved another call regarding 21, they have basically said that dont worry too much regarding my fitness as this can be worked on at the training nights, just get to around level 10-11 on the bleep test and crack on.
My problem is that I REALLY want this but dont want to fail and look a tit,and also my current unit have been really good to and I dont want to P*** them off.
1972, forgeting the bleep test what level of fitness should I be at for the start of the course. i.e miles and speed.
Sorry if you have already covered this.

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Verity
Hello Monkey
What does your training schedule consist of at the moment? Are you mixing up your training? Are you completely over your injury now?
Might be worth giving '72 your age and an idea of how you are doing fitness wise so that he can give a response specific to where you are at.
Hopefully he can reassure you that you won't
'look a tit'!
Good Luck!
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monkey01

Verity,Injury is all cleared up but knock my training right out.
At the mo as I said before i'm only trraining on the treadmill at work and taking it easy.
I run 5miles in 40-45 mins depending on how I'm feeling.
I'm 31 so am getting close to the cut off age for selection.
Due to the DS I know what I have to pass on w/end 1 and that wont be a drama its just getting the R.A.D out of the way.
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blobmeister
monkey - i think they do 8 miles in one hour, and thats just to weed out the early ones...........so fk knows what they do for the actual tests!
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nutter
monkey, you definately need to get out and run on real terrain to above the 8 mile/hr standard.
do it in stages so as not to upset your injury but your time limit is short so have a talk with DS asap
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dangermouse007
hi monkey, hows it going...?

although i'm in no position to give advice, i can tell you i run on the treadmill aswell, with a 1.5% incline. that way i can monitor my heart rate, speed, time, distance and how my fitness increases. i find it good for the cv work, however i don't stick to solely to treadmill. i run on the roads and in the hills with the bergen to keep my legs in form. although it sounds a bit wet sometimes you just don't want to go out in the pooring rain, so it's nice to have the option of doing ten miles around your front room, it's better than nothing mate. also mate, i can remember being at your level, 5m in 40-45 mins. i managed to bring it down to 5m in 32 mins in about a month, training 4 times a week

anyway, good luck hope it all works out for you!!!!!
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Bigdave

Hi 1972 and everyone
i am currently at college and am only 16, but have a real passion to join the sas as my grandad was one of the original sas from ww2. I am wandering what you think to me joining young?

I have a good level of fitness by my reckoning and i was in army cadets for about a year
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Blinder

Hello Everyone,Thanks for the advice and information on this thread, it's going to help I hope, although i'm going to try for 63rd (SAS) Signal Squadron and not 21 or 23, as I've got experience in that area, and no previous Military Exp' (civvy). I've no idea what to expect for 63 selection, but i'll be giving it my best shot, and am sharpening my fitness (which could be a lot better), nav and relevant comms skills atm. I'll be extremely proud to support any of you chaps if I get through, and to wear the signals badge, so good luck to you all on selection, and thanks again for the info.

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Bigdave
so how do i apply?
and does the 3 year minimum service rule not apply to TA regiments?
and also is there a limit to selection attempts? as ive heard you only get 2 shots and i wouldnt want to waste one by being ill prepared
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blobmeister
Big Dave

Im not sure..............Xbut i know youve got to be already in the army but im not sure if its with at least 3 yrs service, or 6 yrs service.X..............

you get 2 attempts.But also being 16, not to put you off but your body might not be at your physical peak, give it a few more yrs with lots more training you could be even better

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nutter
I'll back up what blobmeister said about giving it a few years.

Unlike us old people you have no need to rush anything. Take your time building up your core strength and stamina. Don't run with weights (yet), don't load a humungous rack of weights onto your squats at the gym just because you can do it (never ever)... basically don't ever over do it on loading, reps yes, weight no.
I once saw a kid of 15 years with thighs as big as my waist lifting mental weights on squats. Most ugliest thing I ever saw (even the gym owners wife agreed with me). If he was to take up running later in life he may just find that his knees are already f**ked and deformed through overloading and doing it way to young.
His and your body is still growing.
With the time you have you could build yourself up to a great level of fitness with minimal or just minor injuries in the process.
Use the next few years to study up on nutrition, sports injuries and how they occur (and can be prevented) and training methods that don't rely on a gym or set of weights (hindu squats, hindu press-ups, burpees etc). This allows you to keep in shape when you are away from home/gym etc. Hit google for all this stuff and then back it up with a good medical/sports oriented encyclopedia type home page.

And all this time you spend training, studying and generally disciplining yourself will put you on course for the mental aspects of selection. Don't focus on selection as a goal. Focus on it as a starting point to a different way of life.

Look after you knees... you can beast muscle but you can't beast knees. If they hurt you are doing something wrong. Either too much too early or just doing something wrong.

1972, Thu 13 Oct at 11:10am Link
Its good to see more and more people posting on this thread. Anyone who is just looking in from the sidelines, just drop a line so we can see how many people read this.

72



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155
Hi again people, What age do you guys think is the real 'physical peak age' to attempt selection?

155


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shooom
been readin the threads for a while now .....

Im involved in the cambrian patrol 05, depending on how we do I have been thinking about training with a few to selection ... How testing is the Cambrian compared to the selection ?


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Verity
Good morning Lads, great to see so many of you
going for it. How was your weekend? Kettles on...
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1972
Hi Verity,

think someone was trying to post as you yesterday, they had the name ver1ty !! I has been removed !

Everyone seems to have been busy this weekend, loads of new people posting !!

I will have a look through and answer all I can later !! believe it or not, I am busy this morning !!

72



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Verity
morning '72 ..Seen. Thanks.
Hope you had a good weekend pet
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1972

Here we go !!

Shoom,

Cambrian patrol is a great stepping stone onto selection, it gives you an idea on what it is to be like over terrain for a long period of time. Call the your local unit and get some info sent out. Strike while the iron is hot.

155,

The peak age for selection would be 22-28ish. This is purely my own thoughts and no scientific study to back me up. Younger lads can get through but they are few and far between. Old than 28 and you are starting to fight the battles of fitness !! believe me, I know !

Blobmiester,

Whilst it is advantageous to have the 3-6 years experience in another unit before doing selection, you can actually go in straight as a civvy. The pass rate is very poor due to the learning curve being too steep !.

Big Dave,

You sound like you have the right mental attitude to get through the course, but in my opinion you need to give yourself self a little more time to develop and mature (not saying you are immature) with your sort of attitude this will stand you in good stead for when you want to start selection in a few of years time.

Blinder,

Good bunch of lads at 63sigs you will probably get attached to one of the sqns. Keep the fitness up and you may even (once you have tested the water) to go for selection.

Monkey1

You will need to up you training and get out on the road doing different types of running. Things that are usefull would be Fartlek, intervals, hill reps, circuits and even parluaf if you have a training partner. Look up on the web to give you an intro to any of these methods. Used all together these will help you increase your speed.

I know I have only scratched the surface with most of my answers, but if you want anything more in depth please post again !

72


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monkey01
'72 I know that you cant give out routes etc, but I have been given a route from a friend (he hasnt done selection) but I'm curious with regards to the difficulty and the time required for this one, is there anyway that I can get you view on this please.
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Blinder
Would it be a sensible idea to include "5m in 40mins" in 63sigs training? - sorry if it's a bone question.
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craigyboy
also mate, i can remember being at your level, 5m in 40-45 mins. i managed to bring it down to 5m in 32 mins in about a month, training 4 times a week

hi dm007
can you tell me how you cut your time for 5m down to just over 30 mins
cheers.


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fash
Bloody hell guys no one is going to penalise you for being too fit just make sure you dont over train and peak to soon. The minimum requirment when i was a nig was 5 miles in 35 mins which is quite easy to achieve do intervals to build up or fartlek then just push yourself. The secret to fast running is stride length (economy of movment) and diaphramous breathing do plenty of stretching as well big girls blouse that i am i do yoga find it works for me.
Get on the hills the pure volume of air you suck in and the rate of work involved will bring your fitness on fantasticly 35lb 5k an hour cpl of times a week will see you well on your way i used to make a weekend of it get away early doors sat tab all day pitch tent sup some whiskey tab half of sunday and head for big steak pub lunch and shed loads of guinness.
I would give you a list of good places to train but there have all been used at some point for selection so i wont just use you imagination.

right pint goes to any one that can tell me what year test week was held in scotland and why...........?


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dangermouse007
hi c-boy, to be honest i practised running ten miles, i was told by the ds that if i could increase my 10 mile endurance my 5 mile would come along automatically. my times initially dropped quickly, but now i only seem to be etching seconds away from my time, not mins. however i found that each time i ran 5 miles i wasn't so tired and was always able to push a little harder next time. fortunatly for me, 1 of our ds is a bit of a ninja when it comes to running, so i'm constantly being pointed in the right direction. incidently i tried it last night and just managed 34 mins, it's not really my style, i much prefer walking!!!
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craigyboy
hello fash,was the year 2003 and was it due to the foot and mouth disease ?

ps i fkd up the message that i posted i meant to quote dm about how he brought his time down for the 5m run and ask him how he done it.


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Verity

Foot and Mouth was 2001 so was it then?
Mines a whine x



--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
moth1978
Eeek, just done the bleep test down the gym! First time ever... What sadist invented that?

Seriously what's a good target to aim for when prior to selection? Got to Level 10....


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
shooom
'72 thanks for the encouragement however i think my fitness is well under the level you guys are talking right now, and being 28 its only getting harder ! Have i left it too late !

Cambrian not so far off now, so will keep reading the threads, working on the fitness and see how I get on!

Fourtunate enough not to live to far away from some great training areas, so guess its all about putting the time and effort in !


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craigyboy
well at least i got the disease right

i read that to get to level 11 on a bleep test was equivilent to doing a mile and a half in 9 and a haf minutes.
i personally think the bleep test is much harder to do dont know if its got anything to do with the turning


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blobmeister
lol 1972 is popular in this thread
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fash
Nope wasnt foot and mouth that was done else where. I bet 1972 is off to sqn office to find out or on the phone to the D boys. Ah how i miss the crack dig in guys its a hell off a feeling doing something like this and you just know when it feels right that you belong best days of my life selection simply incredible the friends you make people you wouldnt normaly meet, checking in after a huge ball busting tab and one of the guys sticks his hand out the 4 tonner with a brew in it for you, you cant buy it "yours are the wings and all thats with it" and all that sorry guys excuse the nostalgia little bit to much vino tinto with dinner enjoy dashing fash
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nutter
foot and mouth prevented use of the becons in 2001

but if it wasn't foot and mouth then was it barf and fart?


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
dangermouse007
hey shooooooom!!!

i'm 28 and on selection and i haven't trained for that long!!! and i'm one of the youngest remaining from our lot....! honest mate, one of the fittest guys i've bumped into on selection so far is 31, so your age shouldn't be a prob...! infact most of the younger guys seem to fade away quite quickly, not sure why????

good luck anyway!!!


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Verity
Was Test week done in Scotland in 2002 when the Welsh farmers refused permission for SAS troops to train on their lands in retaliation for the armed forces buying meat from overseas?
The MOD was only buying 2% of their lamb from the UK (which was probably 100% of the sheep that the SAS were shagging).
Would you like onions with your burger ?
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nutter
who's been reading the papers then
I think Verity wins that drink and a wooly sock with a hot potato in it...

but the question remains - what happened up on the hills in Scotland that year then?!

I'll get the pints in, this would make a fun question time down the boozer



--------------------------------------------------------------------------------


fash
nope wasnt 2002 and was nothing to do with foot and mouth pissed off farmers or any other outside influence it was a logistical reason and it was all to do with the glorious 23 keep guessing kiddies lol


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1972

Well Fash,

I have been around for 10+ years and I can't recollect test week in scotland !! and I have spoken to some of the boys north of the border and they can't either.

You will have to put us out of our misery.


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fash

tut tut to the boys of D it was 1967 when the sqaudron was formed 15(scotish) battalion the parachute regiment was asked to do selection on mass, due to the logistics of this it was decided to do test week in scotland (the only time this happend) 15 members passed and paraded at Lassen house as D sqaudron 23 sas (v) the bulging biceps of IC RRTT (in) should have know that "its not for glory honour nor riches we fight......................


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2468

Evening guys,

I have a quick question - Are you apply to attempt selection if you wear either glasses or contacts? I'm getting conflicting information...!

Ta

2468


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shooom
'72 is there anyway of getting the 90 day pre selection training info with out siging up for selection... I know im not ready yet, and neither will i be in three months, but would be helpfull in having a traning programme.
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155
RE: 2468

Hi, Would also quite like to know what the rules are on contacts/glasses/vision regarding selection. Thanks in advance!

155


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Butthead
Hi 155

I'm slightly short-sighted and I passed the medical a few months ago.
So yes you can pass the medical if you short sighted as long as your prescription is not to bad.

If you can read down to the forth line you'll pass. This equates to about a -1 dioptres in each eye.

I've not see anybody ware glasses on selection. I use contacts. I you good with them you will be ok, ie can get them in and out without a mirror in the dark quickly.

+ You can't use them in the Jungle phase as people often get eye deseases as a result.

Hope this helps


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2468
Butthead,

Thanks for the advice. I am -1 in one eye uncorrected and 6/5 in both when corrected so hopefully this will be ok..

2468


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1972
Its good to see more and more people posting on this thread. Anyone who is just looking in from the sidelines, just drop a line so we can see how many people read this.

72

Deskjockey
Hi, have been reading this thread for a while sucking up the advice, am signed up for the next RID. What would you recommend training wise for CFT and do you recommend getting out there and buying some boots asap after the RID. Thanks
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1972
Deskjockey,

CFT's are never that much fun.To train for them, as long as you have a good level of fitness to start with, you can always get through them with a bit of grit and determination.

If you have never done any speed march work get a 30 lbs bergan on, with trainers and just practice a fast walk. The one thing that many newcomers find is that their shins really ache. A bit of practice at this will not do you any harm.

Just don't run with that weight. Do all of your running without the weight. Remember 8 miles in 2 hours isn't that hard. As for boots, just see how your first weekend goes and ask your DS what they think, they might know of places you can get boots at a good price. What area are you from ?

72

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fash
its true what 72 says cft,s aint that hard its more psycoligical than owt else (i always rub vics vapo rub on my chest and under my nose before 1 cause i feel it helps me suck in the air)
as for boots issued are good enough with decent insoles (try the gucci ones that are designed to prevent over plantiler facilitis? not sure thats how its spelt or if not lowas) training is the time that you need to build up self belief if you go at selection expecting to fail then you will you MUST aproach it with the mentality of " when i pass" not if i pass its all self belief guys
think about it some of the jobs you may be asked to do as SF may seem impossable and if you look at it that way you will fail your task, the mentality has to be DO IT no matter what look at stilleto and ryan geordie lillico and jock thompson mal duff ,lofty large anders lassen etc they guys always pulled through strength of mind its the main thing the beret and badge is fu*k all its the feeling of being excepted by your peers( or as the ds always become ) your idols that counts fitness and nav are so much its the rest that you take to it that matters the regiment wants you as much as you want it the soldiers are the life blood of the unit shaping its charactor and mentality and selection reflects this the hardest thing about joining uksf is deciding you want to MORE THAN ANYTHING dig in guys i want to see you all in and buying me beers at sqn burns supper ps mines the whiskey

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shooom

dangermouse,

Thats interesting, I guess the mental strength is stonger as you get older .......
what was your rough level of fitness then before you started training? ... and what stage of selection are you at right now ?

Good luck mate hope it all goes well !
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Verity
Good morning boys..mugs of tea all round
shooom, are you following any particular training programme at the moment?
There's obviously a few books around written by men to help you prepare, so following one or two of those might be a good plan-
Maybe buy Chris Ryan's fitness book on Amazon-
ISBN 0 7126 8439 5
which includes comprehensive weights instruction. (proofs in the pudding as he's in his forties and is still fit as fuck)
Adrian Weale's 'Fighting Fit' has a specific 16 week programme which might be useful (Do try to get hold of a second hand copy of this one as the pie eating c*nt will only buy more pies with the profits if you buy new)

All you lurkers- Do just say hi here and I'll make you a brew- it will give a very useful idea of the level of interest

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cant_think_of_a_username

Verity are you Int Corps by any chance? Just been reading threads and noted a reference to Psy Ops.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
cant_think_of_a_username
Plus the reference to Adrian Weale eating more pies is interesting.

TTFN
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Verity
Welcome cant
Read again more carefully and you will see I did not make the reference to psy ops.
I am only the cyber tea lady mate- making a nice brew is not covered until later on in the course you see.
Enough about me- what's your story?
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1972
Morning 'Maam'

Can't believe your language on first post !!! it doesnt become a lady

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Frisky

Hello everyone, interesting site this, I hope there's room for another female here?. I may be able to offer some advice on the fitness side as I have been involved in fitness for many years over here in Perth. Good luck to everyone attempting selection, and may you all stay injury free on your quest for the dagger!

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cant_think_of_a_username
I know you didnt make the ref to Psy Ops, 1972 did. Im ex regular Int Corps, done selection in 2003, come off on w/e 8 with suspected diabetes. Going again for summer 06. Been monitoring this thread for a while and getting a feel for who is who and what is being said before saying anything. Im going to be down South on the course by the way.

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Verity
I'm very sorry '72
As penance I will not utter another swear word for the rest of the week..and I'll do a 90 minute tab later tonight..how's that?
Your tea's ready pet
(got you a bacon butty out the back too)

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1972
Hi Frisky,

Always room for 2 girls ! whoops did I say that out loud ??

C.T.O.U.N

Good to see you coming back on the course, get your training in now and it will benefit you when you start. Having got to w/e 8 before you know the score. good luck.

Verity,

I will let you off, 90min tab, but make sure you do 200 pressups on route. GO !

72
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cant_think_of_a_username
1972,

training hard at the mo, done half marathon in 1hr39 on w/e, doing roman run tomorrow. 18 mile from Brecon, through Ther Gap (below Pen-y-Fan) then on route for fan dance then onto Merthyr. Going to be a good day out. How come you have got this going on here? Bit public isn't it. I know common sense dictates but you know what I mean.


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1972
Ctoaun

Sounds like good training for tomorrow.

As for a bit public, the thread was started by someone who is or was going on selection. No names, specific locations or any other information that could compromise anyone is used. We have a public website with the details of how to get in touch but what we don't have is that all important link to the public to give them a heads up. Unless DSF want to remove this because its a security risk then its just a help to the ones who may need to know that you don't have to be clarke kent to get through (no comments on christopher reeves please)


Afterall, its helped you a little ?? Maybe ??
72
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1972
They can be pretty anal, but to survive they need people to know what we are all about !!

With such good access to Brecon, you should know the place like the back of your hand.

you can be sure big brother is watching.

72

PS don't give too much away

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cant_think_of_a_username

Yeah I know the place pretty well. I will be more of a viewer than a contributer due to internet access.. plus you really dont know who is watching as we use to monitor the net when I was in. I wish you all the best for the course. May bump into you 1972 next year. Best wishes for a lovely weekend all...

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Verity

This thread shouldn't be a source of concern at all (as long as chaps don't post stuff like whereabouts they live) doh!
Have a great weekend


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cant_think_of_a_username
Ha ha.. fair comment Im the security risk. Take care all and good luck.
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1972
Hope everyone has a good weekend.

Break a leg

'72
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1972
Thanks to menshealth babysitter who removed the offending post.
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nutter
re-iterating what '72 said about NOT running with that 30lb ruck on.
Don't do it not matter how fit you think you are and especially don't do it if you had a hole in your training schedule in an attempt to catch up.
I did that and one of my knees is fucked.

if Verity can swear... then so can I


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Verity
We are in safe hands '72 that's for sure
Have a great weekend pet
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moth1978
72/Verity,

You've been on here a fair bit today how come you get so much time off?


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shooom

Adrian Weale's 'Fighting Fit' might be useful (Do try to get hold of a second hand copy of this one as the fat cnut will only buy more pies with the profits if you buy new)

Thanks Verity ... although im afraid if Mr Weales looking a little porkier next time u see him i have to put my hand up, as i brought new already !!!!

How realistic is the quiet soildier as an account of selection ?
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Blinder

shooom wrote: Thanks Verity ... although im afraid if Mr Weales looking a little porkier next time u see him i have to put my hand up, as i brought new already !!!!

How realistic is the quiet soildier as an account of selection ?


Was wondering that myself shoom.....having gorged myself on all the reading material I can get my hands on lately it's hard to know what to believe, i'm just going to wait and ask when I go and see the unit im applying for, i'm surely going to stop running with weights now though, thats the one thing everyone i've spoken to has told me to stop doing - they all say just improve your running fitness as much as poss, loads of pressups, situps, and chins, and more of the same.
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shooom
STOP running with weights ??? really whats the logic behind that ? I got the impression that was vital ! ... I mainly do an hours ciruit 2/3 times a week with a 4m road run in a every week when i can ... I know i need to step this up but have been improving all the time !
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Blinder

I'm just going on what i've been told shoom, on here, and by ex 21, bear in mind i'm just beginning my training programme, and am increasing my fitness in general. I suppose that when the selection begins i'd do well to train with weight, but not at this beginning stage.
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colonial

Verity and 1972,

For your curiosity and information, you have a very interested reader from New Zealand.

So your thread is spreading far and wide.

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nutter

shooom wrote:
STOP running with weights ??? really whats the logic behind that ? I got the impression that was vital ! ...

Shooom,
oh boy... you need it spelled out eh?! ;o)
not all people arrive out of the box with solid knees ready to take a beasting. You need to build up what you can handle gradually.
Think of it like the guy who weighs 65Kg running with 10Kg (22lbs). He will most likely fuck up a knee if not both (especially cross country).
Compare this to the guy who weighs 70kg running with 5kg. Same total weight but LESS stress on the guy's hips, knees etc. He could still fuck up a knee though he stands less risk of doing so.

I am the 65kg guy who fucked up. If only I had stuck to bulking up!!! I have this mistake with me until I die. And yes I built up to 10kg... Just I built up too quick and was running way to fast.
Now one of my knees feels like its loose and going to giveway should I push off of it with any amount of power. Oh, and it usually hurts something similar to, but much nastier than, chronic growing pains - even after a short run. What pisses me off is that the pain will sometimes stop me well before phyisical exhaustion. Doing shuttle runs is scary... will my foot follow me at a turn or will my knee just give out?... jumping from heights puts a lot of stress on my good knee(®)... etc. Do you get the picture/see the logic?

Like all the good advice beeing given here, spend time building up poweful legs that will be able to carry you through what selection is going to demand of you. You can't rush it. Rushing it is your short cut to potentially prolonged and/or serious injury.

'72, please correct me if I'm wrong but the SAS is not about running with weights. The ability to carry a heavy load over long distances at a fast pace is something that is expected but fast does not mean running in the true sense of the word.
Fast means maintaining a good pace for a long time.


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dangermouse007

hi shoom, sorry for the late reply....! my fitness was really quite good... but not for running. i've been kick-boxing for a few years and practised two or three times a week. however this meant i was good for three minute bursts but then needed a rest as thats what i trained for, so when it came to running i wasn't the best but could run 8mph. as for the selection mate i'm not sure what to say, could say the wrong thing...ask '72 and he'll tell you how we're getting on and how far we are if he can...!!!

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155
Hi again!

Just was wondering for a BFT how many push ups and sit ups do you think you should be able to do (in 2 mins). And whats a good 1.5mile time and on a separate note whats a god 8 mile time? Just wanting to get an idea of how much I will have to improve...

Thanks!!

155

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radar
All of those things are undoubtedly good for your overall fitness but I don't know why everyone is putting so much emphasis on them.Training in any discipline is specific and if you want to give yourself any chance of getting through the selection on the hills then you HAVE to train on them. Will power and mind strength will either come through or not during selection (many are called - few are chosen) and there ain't much you can do about that it's something you either have or you haven't got. Selection is designed to find the guys that have.

Ah! the hot tub in the Spittal after the bucket that is Ben Gulabin read it and weep boys.
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nutter

can someone answer this one for me... thanks
what do you call press ups in terms of military fitness assement - wide (hands below elbows) or narrow (elbows tucked into sides)?
.....................................................................................................................
Verity
Good morning gentlemen, I trust that you had a productive weekend?
Will just say now, with the weather becoming more inclement, and with men perhaps training in more rural places than they are generally used to, to make sure that you always have the right kit with you for changing weather conditions.
Please make sure you pack those things that will keep you alive and comfortable should the weather or situation alter.


Don't go wandering off into the countryside unprepared and alone- make sure, if you haven't got a training buddy with you, (and that is the ideal) that you have your fully charged mobile phone with you, that you have told someone of your route and expected timings and arranged a cut off time at which point they will set about arranging help in finding you.
No matter how big and clever you are, nature is far bigger and cleverer and unfortunately men do die through accidents and exposure etc out on the hills.
I'm sure one of our mountain leaders can give you a quick list of 'must haves' to pack (even for a day march)
Think safety at all times- you are no use to anyone injured or worse.

Kettles on...


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1972
moth1978 wrote:
72/Verity, You've been on here a fair bit today how come you get so much time off?
Its all about making time not having time off.
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1972

colonial wrote:
Verity and 1972, For your curiosity and information, you have a very interested reader from New Zealand. So your thread is spreading far and wide.
This is good to hear, what is it that you do yourself ? anything military ? Endurance etc
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1972
Morning All,

I trust you all have had a good weekend.

Just getting to the point about running with weight. As you are building up towards Selection, a good solid base of fitness is required INJURY FREE. The sure fire way of changing that to include an injury is by adding weight and running with it.

Once on selection this are so far through, you will have to work the hills and use weight as it becomes more specific to the job in hand.

DM007,

You will need to start looking at more hill work (with weight) at the start of next month. BUT NOT MAD RUNNING ON TARMAC

72


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Fred_2420
I plan on going for selection in about one years time. I have had previous experience in the ta before unfortanly at the moment i live in Germany which is flat as a pancake. i plan on going over to wales for some training week's leading up to months before i apply. I am reasonable fit i just finished a month training in the alps as a build up but need to now seriously start going over the routes used in test week. If any one would like to join me for joint training on the hills of wales or uk in generally- *removed e-mail addresss*
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BL ***********
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1972

Hi Bronco,

Just a quick one mate, you couldn't sort me out a few days pay for all this recruiting I am sorting out !! surely its worth 3-5 days ?? Ask the Brig when you take the brew in for him.

yours hopefully

72


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Bronco_Lassen

1972 wrote:
Oh dear me. Just got back and read Bronco's message !!

I think they will have been watching for sometime now bronco and as for GD's thats actually a threat worse than being shot !!

Morning Brig, I hope you can see that this is of some use. I suggest if you don't think it is you get it deleted and everyone who has genuinely requested info on here will have to come into the system blind.

Maybe a little extra detail on the website might not go amiss. Make it a little bit more inviting.

Anyway, hope all of your knees are OK. Keep up the training and we will see if this thread gets removed !

72' OUT.


1972 - The thread is in no immediate threat of being removed as long as it does not deviate from the current subject and turn into a general SF chit chat thread. Keep it to fitness and all will be well.

p.s It's amazing how much info you can glean from someones username and their known location


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1972
Well, you will know whos bank to put the money into !!

72


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Bronco_Lassen

1972 wrote:
Hi Bronco,

Just a quick one mate, you couldn't sort me out a few days pay for all this recruiting I am sorting out !! surely its worth 3-5 days ?? Ask the Brig when you take the brew in for him.

yours hopefully

72

We are quite sure that you are doing this for Queen & Country and for the good of the Regt so no renummeration will be possible You should mention it to your OC when he's writing up your CR.

It's fine men like you that we need to keep within the Regt. We are already experiencing problems with many of your numbers heading away to join better paid jobs elsewhere.

Bronco_Lassen checking out for good but keeping a visual on the proceedings.


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1972

Flattery won't get you anywhere !!

If you are not going to pay me, I am off for one of those better paid jobs !!

72


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Verity

Bronco_Lassen wrote:
Verity, the Brigadier takes comfort from your words and agrees with the general principles of this thread but is nevertheless slightly concerned that things could get out of hand.


Please assure him that certainly for the next month there will be no problems whatsoever as far as security, deletion of individual posts and keeping this thread on track is concerned.

My one concern is that the current site editor is changing in a months time so yes, that's when the unknown factors arrive.

Tea's ready boys...and yummy triple layered chocolate cake for the Brigadier and his team.

ps Gis a job


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1972
Back to the training eh !!

Its raining !! I am off out for a run !! it doesn't get better than running in the rain

72

Have a good weekend all !


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geezerfella
Running in the rain... Now that is commitment for you. Rain snow wind anything. Take comfort in knowing that once the fortunate individuals pass the course that the phys does not stop there. In fact self discipline becomes even more critical to keepones fitness up as the challenge of passing the course has been acomplished. So if you dont fancy phys for life. Check out now. Thats my bit. Am off for a pie. 1972. Sounds like your on for a gong.
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1972
geezerfella,

No gong for me mate, just doing my job ! ha ha

Get some good training in this weekend lads, remember, training is not an exam !! you can't cram a couple of weeks before the test ! It doesn't work like that.

Preparation and planning prevents p1$$ poor performance !!

72


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geezerfella
Plenty of pies & pints prevent passing. The 5 p's to remember.
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1972
Hello all,

hows the training going ??

don't forget the 5 p's


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Tony_2005
Ha - Got my hands on a computer. Finally. Ans yes, I know... A brilliantly original name. I'll definately be following your advice on the P's tonight... Plenty of Pints Promotes Perfect Performance?.. Wish I had a bit more spare time for training..All this work to do and all. I had to get out of bed for 12 today!
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geezerfella
Its a shame you woke up at all Tony.
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jimmy3000
Howdy doody,

Been reading but not posting.

Advice please. I've been building up my distances SLOWLY. I want to increase them but dont want to induce any leg problems.

The runners say increase by 10% a week. Is that a good bet? I want to get up to a good 5 mile in one hit but get fatigue at about 2.5 at the moment. I'm working 3 times a week ..... will it come or do I need to push harder?

Cheers


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moth1978
Right, started training this week. Not got in touch with the recruiting office yet but thought I'd start with the basics.... So with the help of you all I've got the glucosamine and have been doing that for about a week, also went and bought Chris Ryan's SAS fitness book which personally I think is excellent...

As for my fitness level went out last night and did 6 miles in around 45 minutes, so clearly a bit of work to do but I wasn't as bad as I thought I would be. Anyway tonight off to the pool. I'm fortunate in that my company has it's own 50m pool! Lets just see if I can stick at it....


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geezerfella
Swimming is good lads. 45/50 lengths in 30 mins in good to aim for.... 6 mile in 45 mins is good. Try aim for 8 miles in an hr. Do this once or twice a week + circuits or cycling and plenty of walking. I stress also...walking. Not runnin about with a house on your back. Chris ryan fitness book hey... Sod that. Try 72's fitness advice. Read back.
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Beans
Does anybody suggest any sports supplements that are worth taking to help with development and maximise performance, such as protein supplements. Or is it just a case of a healthy diet and plent of water....
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1972
Glucosamine Sulphate !!!!!!! I wish someone would have told me years ago, then my knees probably wouldn't sound like a ratchet everytime they move !!!

As for other supplements have a look at the sort of thing an endurance athlete would take. I am sure there are better qualified people than me who can give you that advise. I am sure mens health will have links to supplement advice.


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fash
for swimming do 1 min tread water
1 length underwater (or as much as you can)
1 length just kicks
1length just arms
1 length normal
reapeat ten times that makes 1 kilometer swam plus ten min's tread water,(ps this hurts)

running do simple fast runs, middle distance, and endurance builders
or play about say run 60 min's but put in a 1 min sprint in every 4 so you would sprint 1 min normal run 4 min's repeat till end of run builds the speed up sharpish that does

alright guys hope all your training is going well no injures etc eating well and getting lots of clear fluid's anyways off for a sauna the life of a mature student you cant beat it


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moth1978
Fash, Hmm 50 metres underwater, me thinks you are equipped with gills!

Blinder

fash wrote:

...alright guys hope all your training is going well no injures etc eating well and getting lots of clear fluid's anyways off for a sauna the life of a mature student you cant beat it


I feel like it's been groundhog day for the past few weeks, exercise, work, exercise, sleep, exercise, work, exercise, sleep, e.t.c e.t.c. Am feeling the improvements though. Shafted my knee a wee bit and am having physio atm, should be ok in about a month, so back to running then....am thinking about 21 instead of 63 as well, so am talking to some people about it. good luck all still on selection.


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glutton_for_punishment
SAS(R) - Visual Acuity
I just found the forum and have a question for the DS:

I’ve been beasting myself in the hills for nearly a year now and feel ready to get stuck into it SAS(R) selection.

But I was looking at the UKSF(R) paperwork you lot sent through recently. My PULHEEMS, colour perception etc is all fine. But my unaided visual acuity is wank (near perfect 6/6 with contacts though).

So, what I need to know is if the "unaided" visual acuity test is just done without glasses – and if it’s OK to wear lenses for this test.

Also about laser surgery, are you able to disclose which of the different types of laser surgery is permissible?

Cheers!


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Blinder

moth1978 wrote:
Fash,

Hmm 50 metres underwater, me thinks you are equipped with gills!


Moth1978,

Have a google around "freediving" when you have a mo, you might be amazed at some of the breathhold times being set, and the depths and distances being achieved, and you'll be surprised how quickly you could increase your tolerances to achieve a 50m distance underwater. Also spearfishing is a great pastime for underwater work, some of the spearos in the med dive down to 40m+ and spear grouper, "deal with them", and then surface...


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fash

moth1978 wrote:
Fash,

Hmm 50 metres underwater, me thinks you are equipped with gills!


i think you will find most commonwealth pools are 25 meters other wise 10 sets of what i suggested would be 2 k not 1 but if your pools is 50 m then just do widths


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spanker

Hiya gang - just a quickie:

Bleep tests - hate them. As a fat bastard I managed last weekend London Nike 10k in 50 mins - Reckon this could get me to level 11 on the bleep? Ta


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fash
in a word no but its a good base to start building your fitness up from actualy its an above average level of fitness full stop so nice one m8

on another note just nearly had to deck a twat for pushing a girl i was drinking with,
and while i know i done the right thing ie not rearanging his face even though i had put my pizza down to do that i still feel bad for not twating him, saying that girl i was with cracked him one as i was hauling him away and it was a beaut think im in love lol airborne aggression all the way pizzas nice too fash oot


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nutter
Beans wrote:
Does anybody suggest any sports supplements that are worth taking to help with development and maximise performance, such as protein supplements. Or is it just a case of a healthy diet and plent of water....


knees/joints has been covered in detail so I'll leave that (check back earlier in the thread) but remember MSM for ligaments is important too.

as for supplements in general...
GLUTAMIN for general repair and promotion of immune system performance (an overworked and run down body is prone toi colds etc)... usually cheaper than buying the BCAA amino acids (which are included in almost all protein supplements anyway).
Available as Glutamin (glutamic acid) L-Glutamin and Glutamin-peptide. Go for peptides if you can.
Used to be considered a non-essential but now its considered "an essential non-essential".
Mix about 3g in a 500ml sports drink to have a trickle charge constant supply of protein for your workouts, circuits and runs etc.

Pre-workout take about 2g in 200ml of OJ. Post workout take about 3g in 300ml of OJ with about 3g of CREATINE (monohydrate). This gives you sugars for your workout, protein for repair and post work out, replenishes your glucogen and creatine stores.

Message to hard gainers...
I've found that a 50/50 ratio of Protein to Carbs works well for me. If you have trouble putting weight on then give it a try. I buy a cheap Carb supplement (P=80%) and mix to get about 45% of both Proteins and Carbs (the rest is fat and traces).
Take your post workout shakes within 30mins of your workouts. No later than 2 hours. This is critical in order to efficiently replace glucogen stores (fuel) in your body.

For general health...
Flax oil 1000mg twice daily
Fish oil 1000mg once daily
CoQ10 is nice to have if you can afford it (30mg three times daily)
Optimen (Optimum Nutritions multi vit) is loaded well and I take half a tab 3 times daily. Its cheap too.
Vitamin C 250mg 3 times daily.

Warnings...
Supplements are just that; supplements to a regular diet. Use them to assist your development in training. Don't build a mental dependancy on them.

Advice...
Hard gainers should eat as much as you can without barfing in the evenings and you will find yourself extremely hungry in the morning. Eat a good mix of fruit and veg too. Drink lots of water.

Cycle your intake... i.e. take a few days off of supplements (5 days every month or so) to allow your body to get rid of anything it may be excessing in.
Make a point of working out in that period too so that you can monitor any changes and be aware of any drop in performance. This is also to allow you to become aware of changes in your system. Use the supplements to build the body that will get you through selection (the supplements themselves will not).

hope this helps - I'm not a sports/supplement proffesional but a hard gainer with a few injuries from overdoing it who finally gained some weight after years of no success.


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geezerfella
You cant do an eye test mate with contact lenses in. I suggest the laser surgery route. if recommended by an optician. Sorry mate. You could allways ask to stand closer to the board or give the medic 50 quid but that wouldnt help you later on when you cant see sh1t and you'd need to be able to.
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1972

spanker wrote:
Hiya gang - just a quickie:

Bleep tests - hate them. As a fat bastard I managed last weekend London Nike 10k in 50 mins - Reckon this could get me to level 11 on the bleep? Ta



Spanker,

You might need to do some fartlek or interval sessions to get your speed up. Towards the end of your bleep test you will be shattered but you need to have the leg speed over the short distance.

72


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glutton_for_punishment

Cheers Geezer!

Bummer. Can't say I'm surprised though. I'm going along to the next induction to find out more and put me out of my misery.

Does anyone on this thread know what kind of laser surgery is OK and what type to avoid?


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spanker
OK thanks - what happens if I fail the bleep test like a big sissy? Do I get another crack?
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1972
*****************SUPPLEMENTS***********************

Lads,

Remember selection has been passed by many a man. The format and test week has not changed for years and years.

This means that even when supplements were not readily available. Men did selection in DMS and puttys and still passed on a diet of Lard and Chips !!! WHAT DOES THIS MEAN??????

The main ingredients in passing is you !!!! and what is upstairs in your head !!!

Supplements won't make you pass, they will only help your physiological state !!

Not your mental capabilities and pure determination.

72


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1972
Spanker,

When is your first atempt ?


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spanker
HAHAHA - tomorrow!


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1972

Oh well,

You can get another chance, but just remember the bleep test is over in about 15 mins or so, just give it your all.


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Verity

spanker wrote:
OK thanks - what happens if I fail the bleep test like a big sissy? Do I get another crack?


Fail?!! That's not an option! Just don't give negative thoughts the headspace. Spanker- a little story just for you-

A 27 year old man woke up one morning and realised he wasn't living his life to its fullest.
All he had ever wanted since he had been a kid was to be a lorry driver.
He had a big problem though. He had a fear of tests and often skived off school to avoid them. When he left school and turned 17 he had loved his driving lessons though and though he nearly chickened out of turning up to the test, he forced himself to, and sweating and shaking and nervous as hell, he went throught with it but in the end failed on couple of points.
His desire to drive made him put in for a retake and even though his fear of tests meant he threw up before the second attempt at the driving test, he forced himself to turn up and passed this time with flying colours. Subsequently the ancient Ford Cortina he bought was his pride and joy.
Soon, despite having no qualifications, he managed to get a job as a milkman and with the regular income providing enough money for his rent and booze and fags he gradually forgot his dream of becoming a lorry driver.
But this one morning a decade later he woke up with a start and realised that he was no longer content being a milkfloat driver.
He suddenly remembered his dream of being a lorry driver and knew he had to realise his childhood dream.
So he booked advanced driving lessons and worked very hard practising advanced techiques and reading the theory books and he really enjoyed applying himself. When the test day came though he threw up and was in a state of panic and was as white as a sheet as he climbed into the driving seat for the test. He overcame his fear though and passed his test.
Then he trained on the big heavy goods vehicles. He loved being in the cab with the instructor teaching him and he knew this was what he wanted to spend his life doing. Out on the open road driving the big trucks he felt complete. He spent hours and hours practising his driving skills. He was so determined to succeed and every moment that he was awake he focussed on improving his driving.
He was though, very scared of the upcoming test and as the date approached he got more and more terrified.
He cancelled his test three times seemingly for legitimate reasons, but it was because his total fear of the test. He knew he had worked extremely hard and could drive a lorry really well (his instructor told him he was an excellent driver).
Finally it was the day of the test and he knew he would have to go through with it this time and not let his fear overcome him or forget his dream of being a lorry driver once and for all.
He turned up an hour early for his test so he could get his head around what he was about to attempt.
He paced up and down in the test yard looking up at the massive yellow lorry cab in front of him which got bigger and bigger the more he looked, the forthcoming test appearing to him to be like the tallest mountain that he couldn't hope to conquer.
He started to shake and sweat and panic and he thought there was no way he could do this. He was just about to jack and leave the yard when in walked his driving instructor who smiled knowingly and handed him a kids matchbox toy model of the exact lorry in front of him.
"Put the model truck on the ground" he said.
Close your eyes and imagine getting in to that little cab and driving it. Imagine passing your test with flying colours. How do you feel when the examiner says "You've passed" ? "Now walk on past the model" The man took a few steps past the little lorry. "Look back at it now" The man turned around around and looked back down at the little yellow lorry on the ground and laughed at how small the lorry looked on the ground. "Passing this test is a small thing that you are very well prepared for."said the instructor.
"Not such a big problem now is it?"
The man suddenly realised that the only thing stopping him passing this test was himself.
He knew he had prepared well for the test. He knew he had worked hard.
It had simply been his own negative thoughts fears and doubts, that he had allowed far too much space in his head to, that had been working against him all this time.
He glanced once more at the little yellow lorry on the ground, chuckled inwardly, took a deep breath and climbed into the cab of the big yellow lorry knowing that nothing would now stop him achieving his goal of becoming a lorry driver.


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spanker
Ha ha - your advice has been appreciated! Thanks guys!


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blobmeister

Hi guys just thought id add to this - just ordered chris ryans fitness book, only 8 quid so sod it might as well. i dont expect sas fitness thats for sure but hopefully it will have some good stuff in it. has anyone else got this book how did you find it ? thanks


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blobmeister
Hi 72 - just wandering when you said you went out for a run in the rain how far did you go? (my m8 in the army says some sas guys come past them when therye on......forgotten what its called and its nuts because the theyre knackered and the sas guys have done like 3 or 4 times more than what theyve done! probably with more weight also!)
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glutton_for_punishment
Hey Blob,

I'm tempted to get a copy myself since someone else recommended it.

I've been using a book called Fighting Fit by Adrian Weale. Some of the the fitness food recipes in there are pretty good too - but small servings - when I've been doing hill reps and stuff I need at least twice that amount of food.

blobmeister
Hi glutton - yeah im always hungry lol but it doesnt matter so long as you do the exercise and burn it off!

im just worried one day it will catch up with me! but well see!
also - i have two links for people if theyre interested - its about swimming but its 2 olympians from america and mental strength wise........................they are insane. They really do mind over matter and at swimming paces which i cant even do, let alone keep for 30k!

like the one guy erik vendt is only 5ft 10 but he did 1000metres x 30, yes, 30! (for those of you who do swimming youll know how hard that is! ) but whats more mad about it is that he was going on 10:50!!! thats like faster than me going flat out lol, for 30k! just mad really - but these gys have the mental attitude that could get you in the sas! anyway interesting to read for those of you who are taking selection or training for it! http://www.usaswimming.org/USASWeb/ViewMiscArticle.aspx?TabId=480&Alias=Rainbow&Lang=en&mid=799&ItemId=1579

and (ive been looking for the article but cant find it, tho this one is still good!)

http://www.findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_qa3883/is_200303/ai_n9173238


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dangermouse007
hi '72, great weekend, hard but good, managed to pull some reasonable times out of the bag, however the speed march seemed a bit quick. i clocked up nearly 6.5 kph, not questioning anyone but is it possible there was a mistake with this time???? hopefully not....!
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glutton_for_punishment
Hi Dangermouse/1972,

I'm a new bloke on this thread - found it on a google a couple of days back. I gather ‘72 is on the DS and Danger is doing selection. I was hoping you could help me with some PT queries. I'm prepping but since I haven't any SF mates to guide me in training I'm hoping to glean some tips and wrinkles off of you lot.

On the weekends, what kind of distances and weights are you doing? I've been out on the moors earlier this week with a mate, did 22km in dense fog, pacing out the distances (2-3km legs) on bearings using a normal army silva with 50lbs in the bergen. The time was 4hrs 20mins. When we do these tabs we usually do a route card at the start and then hammer round the fictitious RVs as fast as we can. If an RV is on a flat featureless bit we get a GPS out to make sure we’re bang on the spot (but we don't use it for bearings and distances). We alternate on the nav, I do one leg then he does the next. Both of us pace so we can compare and work out where we screwed up when we do.

This afternoon I did a 2hr CFT-type tab with 30 mins hill reps in the middle, 40lbs in the bergen.

What I wonder whether this is the right sort of training. Should I focus most on the nav or the phys? Do you really carry mega-weights in the bergen - someone told me that on the "hill phase" (which I think is what's called "aptitude" in the paperwork) you carry 80+lbs - so is that really the sort of weight I should get used to carrying out on the hills?

I'd be really grateful for any training pointers you or '72 could provide.


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dangermouse007
Hi Glutton,

Sorry mate but im in no postion to give out any phys tips, and info on selection is a definate no no....! However, i was always told not to train with excessive amounts of weights which is mentioned in previous posts if you look back. I think '72 should be able to give you some good pointers to help you on your way,

good luck anyway


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1972
Glutton,

You seem like your doing more than enough the moment. Getting on the hills will be the best preparation and training with a mate gives you good competition and a reason to get out.

80lbs + !!! no chance mate. most of the training is done at around 50lbs.

Blob,

Running in the rain. 10 miler. There is always this thing that the blokes from the regt are super elite distance runners etc !! Most just enjoy fitness and its people like your mates who over exaggerate the physical capabilities !! or it could even be the regt blokes taking the P!$$ to see your mates react !


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1972

dangermouse007 wrote:
hi '72, great weekend, hard but good, managed to pull some reasonable times out of the bag, however the speed march seemed a bit quick. i clocked up nearly 6.5 kph, not questioning anyone but is it possible there was a mistake with this time???? hopefully not....!
6.15kph DM007
Look at your map and it took you 1hour 57 PS times still need to improve


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glutton_for_punishment
1972,


Thanks, that's a relief. I tried tabbing with 80lbs a while back and how shall I put it - it just wasn't as fun!

A couple of questions on swimming then. I used to swim like a brick. Got through the MST using the spastic style, the PTI called me the drowning dog. Now I do 1,5km once a week and quite enjoy it - especially as it gives the knees a rest.

1. I have only mastered breast stroke. Is it important to practice other strokes before selection? I mean like swimming on your back and crawl.

2. I swim in trunks at the local pool but down there I'd be a bit out of order doing it in CS95. Is there any other (more discreet) way of simulating swimming with clothes on? I tried ankle weights and nearly drowned. Or is it the case that normal swimming is good enough prep?


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geezerfella
Just go swimming mate. Thats good enough and just do about half an hr. None stop. 45/50 laps of a 25m pool. Lads you dont have to do the tests b4 the tests. You train for the tests. Tab with 30lbs. Swim without clothes. Then on the day go balls out. Its a test. Marathon atheltes dont run a marathon every day!!!
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1972

To increase your strength swimming, use the floats. 4 lengths with float in your hands to strengthen your kick and then with float in between your legs to strengthen your stroke.

But Geezerfella hit the nail on the head above.


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glutton_for_punishment

Geezer & '72:

Point taken. I've never tried floats - will try it, and thanks for the tip.


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1972
Glutton,

Can't remember if you said before, have you requested your pack to start the next course ?

north or south ??


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glutton_for_punishment
Yes, got the pack. I'm down south.

But it looks like I'll have to do eye surgery first. I'm going to get all this clarified on the induction day, but having surfed the net it seems you've got to wait 6 months after doing laser surgery before you can get stuck into selection.

If anyone has experience/info on the eye surgery issue as it relates to UKSF selection I'd be really interested. Obviously, I need this little problem ironed out ASAP.


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2468
Glutton,

not sure on the eye surgery but apparently you can wear contacts if your eyes are not too bad - haven't had this confirmed though, just word of mouth.

1972 et all; Any ideas on whether certain medical conditions are an absolute no-no when applying? I've had problems in the past with joints and back etc but nothing specific for the past 4 years..?

Much appreciated..


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jimbob76
Hi 72/dangermouse,

Been having the DT's missing you all from the weekend.

Have been feeling stiff round the chest area, due to breathing out of my a@@!
Oh Ye have wipped myself today as promised for starting last and not finishing first.
But third isn't that bad.(Could still be better!)

It's good news about the extra sessions, as the speed has gone up we do all need the extra time on the ground in order to pass, i think.

P.s I tried my Police sun glasses on again and they do still look better on me for sure!! Ha, Ha, But as you all ready a Sa@@@ God I'm sure you'll live!

See you all soon in a couple of weeks!
Regards

Jimbob76.


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Verity
Good evening boyz
It's great seeing so many of you here and in such good spirits.
Lads please will you read through your posts before you click on submit to double check them.
No dates/places or even any info about possible 'extra days and when they might be'.
Don't even say "see you two weeks on thursday" for example. Thanks muchly.

Tea's ready


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dangermouse007
hello jimbob,

no guessing who you might be is there, very specific on the info i might add, any updates on the training we were chatting about for the coming days, think a couple of days should just about do it, definately made a difference to the times on w/e just gone, but have been told the times need to improve still......! what do you reckon?


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glutton_for_punishment

A question for any PT gurus out there:

When I'm tabbing hard and ford a river or go through some really deep boggy stuff I sometimes get sudden cramp in my legs. It can also come when doing a quad stretch after a cheeky tab.

It also happens sometimes when I swim, after about 40-60 minutes, but when swimming I can usually feel it coming on for a while before the cramp starts.

Why is this happening - and is there a way to prevent cramps? My missus tells me I should eat more salt (she reckons cramps are due to salt depletion).

Any ideas?


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jimbob76

Verity,
Many thanks for the obvious! am obviously a internet virgin.

will watch the content a little in the future!!

Thanks again
Regards

Jimbob76.

NOV '05
jimbob76
Gluton,
I'm not a spotter and confess to knowing all about everything.
But the cramping up that your getting would suggest to me that you could do with trying Deoralite in your water. You can get this from Boots, they also do their own brand which is cheeper! although not a great deal cheeper.

You must follow the user guidelines and not over do it as salt can be as bad as it can be good for you!

You can also try looking at getting you missis to rub you down with baby oil (This is not a wind up!), especially you carf's and hamstrings.
Not only is it relaxing but if you type in hamstring or carf injuries on the internet, you will get info as to why carf muscles in sport men/women stay tight!!

Try both anyway, I can recommend getting the missis involved with the workout anyway!

Regards

Jimbob76.


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dangermouse007
hi jimbob,

any more plans for the training this weekend???


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The_Happy_Wanderer
He's having a good few hours disco dancing Friday night, and a nice leg stretch on Sunday.
I'm looking at both days- what you up to?
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glutton_for_punishment
Jimbob,

Thanks. I found some interesting info on:

http://sportsmedicine.about.com

Looks like it could be the salt thing. I'll try the deoralite today. Also, I often skimp on the stretching so I'll try some flexibility sessions and see if it feels better.

As for my missus joining me on the hills. Nice idea but she told me to stick it!


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Tony_2005
Heres a question...

Does including strength training (upper body weights in gym) in your fitness programme alongside endurance aerobic training (1hr plus) have a negative effect on your muscle size and strength?

One of the gym instructors told me today that I wouldnt be able to increase my stregnth or size whilst doing as much aerobuc as i do...

Personally I thought that as long as you take in enough protein/carbs etc so that there isn't a calorie deficit then I would be able to increase my upper body strength as well as improving my aerbic system.

Dopes anyone have any good knowledge on this? Currently I do my strength training (50 mins) followed by an aerobic session (hour ish)..


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interested76
Hello 72,

I'm new to the site and would like your advice if you don't mind. I have previously served in the army (airborne) for 7 years, left 4 years ago. I left due to injury which screwed me as I was going to attempt selection. I am desperate to follow on a have a go at selection, though my ultimate goal would be to join the regs. What is the scope for this to happen. I am now 29 and obviously worried that my time has gone. Would it be possible IF I were to pass TA selection that I could then go on and attempt the regs? I have friends who have passed and failed and I DO understand how difficult it is. I know its one step at a time but I would like to know whether it would be possible to achieve my ultimate goal. Thanks in advance.


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dangermouse007
hello happy,

yeah looking at both days aswell, but think leaving friday night may be an issue. how does leaving early on saturday morning grab you, might mean a bit of night nav, but it's all training....?

Dm


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The_Happy_Wanderer
DM007
Yeah, great. I think we should make Sunday the main training effort. What do you reckon, keep the bergans light? My knees are starting to feel it a bit.
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dangermouse007
happy,

If jimbob turns up it will definately be the main effort, and you know me, i like to carry a bergan full of helium....! my knees seem ok, it's more my ankles causing me grief!


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fash
are you guys remembering to stretch properly on rest days? give it the old fu manchu yoga tai chi malarky i kid thee not it is essential eh i love quoating from the litrature

" during a process as demanding as UKSF selection training, a good flexibility programme is essential to sucess" not girlie at all unless you do it in a leotard,
might also be worth while going for a massage and a sauna on monday after selection weekends i did, told my self it was to prevent injurys and to promote muscle recovery etc(which it does massuse will find damaged muscles no dramas) but it was really just to treat myself cause id took so much punishment on the weekend (guys that arnt doing course just now believe me it hurts more than you can possably imagine)

also if your getting cramps think about taking a salt tablet after tabs i have to my face is powder white i sweat so much out on the sore ones anyway have a good weekend guys take some time to enjoy it fash the dashing oot


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1972
Hi All,

Been away for a few days and can see a few questions to be answered ( I am not ignoring you all). I will be back on line this afternoon (4 ish) I will get a chance to answer question from the last few days and tony the instructor is correct but there are ways of achieving what you are after it is just a fine balance.

72


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The_Happy_Wanderer
Fash
I must admit that my flexibility training has taken a nosedive. Before I started the course, I stretched 3 times a week and did yoga and pilates classes.

The problem I have now is that stretching and flexibility work doesn't fit with my current routine. I used to do my stretching when I did strength training in the gym, and TA falls on nights when I did yoga. It's just too easy not to do any, when you're feeling the pressure already!

I have a massage every couple of weeks (the masseur has commented on how much harder it is to work on me these days!). You're exactly right about 'treating' yourself. It's great to relax!

The Happy Wanderer


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The_Happy_Wanderer
DM007
You're right about jimbob. I went for a run today, and my knee is agony. Might go for a daysack with sandwiches only tomorrow- besides taking it 'easy' will help us appreciate the scenery!
The Happy Wanderer
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1972
Look at the time !!! expecting to be on earlier but work got in the way !!

Will answer questions over the weekend.

Don't push it too hard DM007, Happy wand and jim bob. If you are going down to the obvious then use it to learn the area and not so much of a training session !!! You will have plenty of time to train and peaking at the right time is essential.

Have a good one.


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1972
interested76,

Good to see another person interested. You are at a good age to do this course. If you stay injury free then you are in the prime to pass. At your age you are more likely to be stable in your thoughts and mental strength should not be an issue. Your injury need to be looked after to make sure is doesn't come back. What was the injury ? are you north / south ?? and how have you kept your fitness since you left ?


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1972

How did the training go this weekend then gents.

72


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dangermouse007
hi '72,

training got binned unfortunately, a few family issues....! this meant i only managed to train yesterday at home, which i was mighty cheesed of about. anyway should be away on the next free weekend to do a bit....!


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fash
my training went fantastic 25 k on sat at 5 k an hour and 20 k sunday at same (45lb) (rather large big buckets of hills called the cobbler and the brack around the arochar alps ) then big steak dinner guinness, guinness, guinness,(this goes on a bit) and fruit, fruit, fruit and just done a 7 miler in 42 mins the night take the fitness steady, stretch lots, eat well, sleep enough, and it all starts coming together another few months till my course starts getting buzzed for it already

take care all fash


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upforit
hey guy,
been watching this post for a while, and was wondering if anyone would be willing to post a sample training programme for me, as guys who are partaking in selection, i completed the pre selection phse but buggered the selection weekend up, have been improving my fitness all the time, im now on 7 min miles for about 8 miles, at a push 10. Dangermouse007 and anyone from HQ 23 hows it going and and good luck for the rest of the course

(previously justgoforit)


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fash
Ey up guy have a look back through posts, i posted a sample from the training prog available from all good training wing Hq at hereford/poole have a gander at it its from typical week 6 months before selection to right about to 1 month before it use it as a guide and find your own way as you will know how your own body responds better than any.
Personaly i think its a really good prog its helped me get my fitness back up after a horendous lnjury that had me laid up for nearlly a year, but it's not the content thats good its the principles in it a mix of high intensity and low intensity so you constantly progress with out over-training wish they handed it out when i was on course i done it the old fashioned way be being ball buggeringly knackerd all the time running 40 plus miles a week doing circuits and tabs and generaly having no life ahhhhhhhh the sacrifces we make
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fash

Here ya go copied it out for you again try it with gradual progression (5% increase in work load per week think FITA cant fail)


Monday , BPFA
Tuesday, 20 min swim trousers/shirt
Wedensday,run/march hilly terrain 45lb 2-3 hours
Thursday, circuit training 12 exercises 20 reps max 3 circuits
Friday,60min run 60-70%mhr
Saturday, 40 mins flexibility
Sunday,run/march hilly terrain 30lb 2-3 hours

thats a typical week over the three month build up phase the pre aptitude (start 3 months before selection) a typical week goes

Monday Am,bpfa Pm 20 min swim
Tuesday Am, 30 min run 60-70% Pm 40 min run same
Wedensday Am rest ,Pm run/march hilly terrain 40lb 2-3 hours work on navigation
Thursday Am rest Pm run/march 45lb 10 x 1 hill reps
Friday Am circuits 12 exercises 20 reps 4 circuits Pm 50 min run 70-80%mhr
Saturday Am 40 mins flexibility Pm rest
Sunday run/march hilly terrain 45lb 2-3 hours work on navigation

Id suggest you speak to traning wing though they should have the prog or if not they will have access to it for you and if not at a push (if your serving aproach a PTI or headshed APTC to see if they can advise a prog for you



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upforit
yeah, ive already done the pre selection programme, but i was wondering what you guys either on selection or those that have doen selection, what your training programme is like, im just trying to get my fitness up to above the pre pre selection fitness level before i apply again, cos i buggered up, ie i want to know milage run and the average time etc, cheers for including the pre selection programme, i ve been running for 5 miles then swimming for half an hour then running another 5 miles home


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fash

IMO the best programme is the one handed out by the training wing, it has been designed by experts who know what is required all through out the course (continuation included witch is just as physical as aptitude)
In the days of old before they gave out nice "SPECIFIC" training programmes i used to run me knackers off with half a house on my back , my girl freind (feind) lived about 12 mile from me so i used to put 45lb in bergan and run that a few times a week plus swim, plus circuits(boxing and muay thai), and get up the hills when i could, i was in fact over training, towards end of the course i chilled out loads on training and aimed to maintain my fitness, but i have to stress again the best programme you can get is vaired structured and progressive whilst being specific to the demands of UKSF Selection and that is definatly the programme devised by the training team or fighting fit is a good guide as well.


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upforit

okay, thanks alot fash, ill continue woth the programme the training wing gave me and then carry on progressively after that.

The_Happy_Wanderer

Up for it

In terms of your running programme, that's about what I'm doing daily in the week, split 6/3 and 30mins swim. I'm not particularly fast at running, a lot of my training is at around 9m/minute, with only one or two fast runs in a week. This has shown recently, as I'm probably the slowest at running over a couple of miles of the candidates left on the course at our location.

However, I'm not the slowest on the hills- i.e. I don't think you need to train to be a speed demon runner to be a demon possesed ninja on the hills.

At the weekend I'm going hillwalking in the main, if DM007 and Jimbob can pull their fingers out to join me. This is, I think, important. It's difficult to know exactly what to do on these walks regards weight, had a lot of conflicting advice from staff on this.

I seem to be doing more running than most at the moment, and others seem to be making better relative progress in the hills. I'm not sure, therefore, I've got it quite right, so I'm trying to revise my regime slightly to take in more hill running. This is difficult to fit in around work. If you are who I think you are, then you won't have this problem!

To gauge, I'm achieving around the pass speed, I guess.

The Happy Wanderer
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The_Happy_Wanderer
Up for it
I think a good reason to 'start from scratch' with the training wing programme is that it will allow all of your body to develop at the right rate. For example, muscle adapts to exercise a lot quicker than tendon, so by 'starting at the bottom' you are less likely to over strain the slower developing parts.

The Happy Wanderer.
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The_Happy_Wanderer
Fash
I see you were doing 5k/hr training- good man. One thing I've noticed is that in training, even on 'routes' achieving speed is easier than on 'training weekends'. Don't know why, it's buckled!
The Happy Wanderer

newbie2005
Hi all,

Interesting board. I'm new to this - but wanting to work my fitness up to a sufficient level to attempt select' next year. I currently run 10km a day, then swim 40 lengths (25m pool). I do this three or four times a week. From this 'baseline' of limited fitness, what would be a sensible training plan to now follow please? Am I best buying Fighting Fit and just following that plan - or can someone post the training wing plan please (is that the one on the top of this board (page 52)).

Thanks for your ardvice - appreciate it.

newb
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The_Happy_Wanderer

Newbie
Advice. Click on 'link' next to 1972's name in this forum.
From here, phone the appropriate number. There won't be any compulsion to attend the next, or any, course, but they will not only tell you dates and things, but send you the pack themselves.
Without knowing anything about you, I reckon that your training seems okay, though you will obviously have to build up from there
Happy Wanderer
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upforit
Ha Ha, very true about the work load happy, i take it youre from a sqn then. cheers for the advice thats pretty much what i wanted to know, hill running is quite hard where i am, due to lack of any prper hills, but im making do and just sprinting any hills i come to. anyway good luck with the training and i hope all goes well
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The_Happy_Wanderer
Up for it
I've been thinking about you at lunch time, and spoken to a couple of the lads. We're all agreed that the best advice for you, and preparation for this course, is that the DS gave you after the form up weekend.
Happy Wanderer


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The_Happy_Wanderer
Newbie- a bit wrong, click on 1972, look at his profile (good looking bugger isn't he?) and then click the link to his website.

Happy Wanderer


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upforit

yeah, thats what im doing, joined a local TA unit, and im gonna do that for at least a year, not mature enough yet. working on that, and im gonna build my fitness up much more before i apply for the course, only gonna make that mistake once.
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The_Happy_Wanderer
Good lad. I must say that blokes (us and DS) only have complimentary things to say about you, so stick with it and all the best!
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upforit
Well its nice to know i made an impression i suppose, have no idea who you are, would you be able to give me a clue, i dont really know who dangermouse is either

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Verity

Hmnn..I was just thinking how well you boyz were behaving too!
Welcome new guys....and any lurkers (do pop in and say Hi please as this will give a useful indicator of the real level of interest in this topic)

If you've read all the posts in this thread you will know the routine regarding security but it cannot be repeated too many times, so please take note-
People often like to register on websites using a fake hotmail account and a IP address mask.
Don't post your real names, initials or anything that specifically identifies you. No locations, details, dates, days, training areas, information about any other individual (DS or fellow trainees)or any details at all about the course.
Don't put a link to your e-mail address in your profile or in a post. Don't put a link to any website you frequent. Don't use the same sign-in name here that you use anywhere else on the web.

I'm not asking you to sit in a darkened room, honest!...just start here as you will need to go on, whoever you are, and whatever stage in the process you are at.

Thankyou boyz. Tea's ready.......and there's a crate of cold cyber Stella for the next half a dozen lurkers who introduce themselves ....
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1972
good shout Verity,

Keep good security on this site and the powers that be looking in may see this as a positive on the recruiting front.

Happy W, if you think my profile picture is good looking you should see me for real !! Im gorgeous !!

Jimbob and DM will vouch for me I am sure !!

72
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blobmeister

hi verity dont mean to sound rude but can i ask what you do - do you just make cups of tea for them all the time?

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Verity
Pretty much pet..great timing..kettles just boiled.
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craz, Wed 9 Nov
I never thought I would find a discussion group like this online! I've read the lot and thought I would pose a question to get your advice.


I was serious about joining up a long while back. I was well into my own buildup training for selection (23) in 93. However I ended up getting glandular fever. I was ill for months and lost a lot of fitness.

After that I dabbled with the idea of joining the regulars and thanks to 'advice' from my parents I found myself sitting RCB. Not wishing the rupert lifestyle one bit and realising I was there to keep my parents happy I didnt go any further and dropped out.

A month or so after that I landed a really good job in IT and, cutting a long story short, I sat at a desk for the next 10 years before I saw what had happened. I was married, was 18 stone (yes, all fat) and my only workout was cutting the grass every two weeks.

Last year my wife and I split, I changed job and moved house. I've completely changed my life for the better and have started to get my fitness back. Im now down to a farily fit 13 stone. Im swimming 40 mins most days during the week and im out hillwalking most weekends. Im pushing out sets of 50x3 pressups fairly easily now and im getting on ok with 6-8 mile runs.

I know I will be ready to take selection by winter 2006 and possibly by next summer if training goes well. I have made this a major goal in life and would really love to join up.

The problem I have is that come January next year I will be 32. I know I have the metal energy and drive to pass but as a civilian with no real military experience have I left it too late?

If I cant take selection would I be able to join as support staff?

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dangermouse007
hi up for it,

hows it going, thought it was you with your slight name change, hope trainings going well for you, did you go to cdo unit by any chance? the coarse is hard at times, and harder at others...!

take it steady mate

Dm

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upforit
Dangermouse,
no mate, i assume by cdo, you meant commando, no i went for an easier life and joined my OTC unit... allows me to get some soldiering skills and it fits in with my "heavy" workload, lol. It also allows me to concentrate on the fitness required for the course. where do you tend to go for your off weekends??? cos im thinking about doing a few weekend walks, and was wondering if you knew any good routes etc... did you get my number???
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dangermouse007
i didn't get it mate but will tomorrow from one of the lads, but we try and head for the obvious places, not sure if i can post it on here but you should be able to work it out... if you do go there, take someone with you, and carry some safety gear, just in case you do get in the shit...! i was out there a few weeks back with jimbob76, and i have never seen such bad weather. and he was much to the same opinion. we walked the FD, if that helps, it was howling. i'll give you a bell tomorrow if i get your number

DM
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upforit
yeah, cheers for the heads up on safety, never know whats right to take... i think i know where youre getting at, ill have a look at my map anyway and plan a nice gentle stroll, lol
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nutter
craz wrote: The problem I have is that come January next year I will be 32. I know I have the metal energy and drive to pass but as a civilian with no real military experience have I left it too late?

If I cant take selection would I be able to join as support staff?


Craz.... no intention to pre-empt 72 who is the man to answer your question. But should the answer be a no/too late then you may want to look a the Rock Apes.... there is no 32yr age limit and they do a specialised job with TA seeing active service. There might even be a back door (though I very much doubt it).


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The_Happy_Wanderer
1972
I have seen you in the flesh, indeed words have passed between us. On the basis I have completed marches, it would be difficult not to have done so.

I know it's unconventional for recruits to offer DS advice, but I think you should wear that respirator more often.

Happy Wanderer
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geezerfella
1972 ..... I think you have a face like a melted welly. Verity.make us a brew.
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The_Happy_Wanderer
Up for it
When you speak to DM007, give him your e-mail address. An ancient recruit gave me some info that might be useful for you re training.

OTC indeed- you've joined for the women. Good lad. Use it to get on some adventure training and stuff. It's the best way to make up for the fact that the bounty is rubbish.

Also, you may remember me as...

... the General.
The Happy Wanderer
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monkey01
I have been re thinking my plans for selection and Ive realised that Im never going to be able to stop thinking about it until I at least give it a go. So here it is Im chucking my hand in and going for it Ive spoken to the local Sqn and looking at starting summer next year.

Also nutter by Rock apes do you mean RAF Regiment.

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craz
monkey01 wrote: Also nutter by Rock apes do you mean RAF Regiment.


I assume it is. Their website is:
http://www.raf.mod.uk/rafregiment/index.html
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Verity
Welcome craz..and that's the first crate gone..

We've still got another five crates of ice cold cyber beer here awaiting the next five lurkers to introduce themselves....

geezer, your tea will be with you in an moment pet
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1972
Happy Wanderer !!

You will be a happy wanderer when I give you the wrong ' your next grid is' !!!

Geezer, I would expect nothing less from you !!

Craz,

You are never too old mate. If its something that you have always wanted to do then you should look deep within yourself and think if it will play on your mind if you don't give yourself that attempt. If the Rock apes take you on over and above your current age then you can do that afterwards without losing out.

If you go for the Rock apes and love it and then want to do selection you may be too old !!! Chicken and egg !

Only you can decide.

72
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nutter
Craz and Monkey,
your FU is strong.....

but not strong enough )

http://www.rafreserves.com/
select trade = "gunner"
location to whatever and then hit search

also check out Q3 on the FAQ
http://www.rafreserves.com/how_to_join/faq.htm

Like I said, 72 is the person to have answer your previous post about 21/23 age limits Craz, but if you're at a stage in your life where you want to do something more than the 9-5 then the Rock Apes (R) offer that should the 21/23 not be able to. And if you train with 21/23 in mind regardless, you'll be a valued soldier in any other unit.
I think there is a hell of a lot that the older guy can bring to a specialist unit and its been commented here before that the older guys often run circles round the younger ones.

Wishing you the best and hoping that your in time for 21/23.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

nutter

Sorry for being nanny here 72 but this was Craz's main concern:-

craz wrote:
The problem I have is that come January next year I will be 32.

cheers
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1972
I know mate, 32 is the age limit.

What I meant was if he tries it on this next course he will be ok. If he doesn't he will never know because his age dictates that he can't try again after. If he joins the Rock apes and loves it, he will be too old to attempt selection. And then he will never know.

I am not sure if I am making sense !!
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
nutter

1972 wrote: I am not sure if I am making sense !!


oi! nobody gets that job mate.... its reserved for the likes of nutters like me ;o)

glad to here your good to go Craz!!!
just wish I was...

------------------------------------------------------------------------------


The_Happy_Wanderer
1972
You'll know me by my profile picture.
Happy Wanderer
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dangermouse007

hi u.f.i

sorry mate, it appears nobody has your number amongst the blokes, so i don't know what to suggest...! anyway if you do come up with a plan let me know

Dm
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upforit

ah well, not to worry. put my name down for cambrian patrol, which im hoping should give me some good training in the hills, and of course its paid, what can be bad about that, is this a good idea for preparation for selection???

craz

Verity wrote: Welcome craz..and that's the first crate gone..


ice cold cyber beer eh? I'd settle for one of your fabled cups of tea!

1972 wrote: If its something that you have always wanted to do then you should look deep within yourself and think if it will play on your mind if you don't give yourself that attempt

It has been on my mind for years and has recently been my sole motivation in life. Im delighted that the cut off isnt on your 32 birthday and you can take selection when you are 32. This gives me the whole of next year to get fit and to sign on.

Thanks!
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
nutter

1972 wrote: I am not sure if I am making sense !!


oi! nobody gets that job mate.... its reserved for the likes of nutters like me ;o)

glad to here your good to go Craz!!!
just wish I was...


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------


The_Happy_Wanderer
1972
You'll know me by my profile picture.
Happy Wanderer


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
dangermouse007

hi u.f.i

sorry mate, it appears nobody has your number amongst the blokes, so i don't know what to suggest...! anyway if you do come up with a plan let me know

Dm


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
upforit

ah well, not to worry. put my name down for cambrian patrol, which im hoping should give me some good training in the hills, and of course its paid, what can be bad about that, is this a good idea for preparation for selection???

upforit
you might be able to figure out my email... its my first initial followed by an underscore then my surname at hotmail.com. hope that helps


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The_Happy_Wanderer

UFI
Cambrian is a good comp- exactly the sort of thing you should be spending your time doing.


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The_Happy_Wanderer
UFI- can't remember your first name
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upforit
it begins with an "*"(edited)
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Verity
Right that's quite enough of that!
No more clues/ hints/ initials whatsoever to be posted on this thread.
Which part of this instruction do you not understand? Any more of it and your posts will be deleted as I will not allow this thread to be put at risk of being removed.
You lot are bad for my blood pressure!!!
Now crack on...
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upforit
im very very sorry verity, my mistake completely ill stop now
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craz
Got some new boots and a nice set of blisters. Whats the best treatment? Just keep them dry and clean or use some sort of product - thats the blisters im asking about not the boots
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medic1
1972

Hi, am a mature medical student interested in medical support for your gang, any suggestions on best place to look. I'm neither young nor pretty, but fitness is heading towards airborne brotherhood tests in feb. looking to leap into teh unkown at teh earliest opportunity after that.. but a baseline idea of how? fitness required etc would be most helpful if your able to point in any direction?

thanks
medic1


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nutter
just thought I might throw this in on foot care...

Since moving to Japan about 14 yrs ago I've spent most of that time barefoot in the house.
For those of you who wear hot sweaty trainers all day long, don't!!!
Your feet will get tougher and stay healthier more if you keep your feet exposed to the air and not trapped in footwear.
You have most likely all heard the running on sand thing... well regularly walking on very dry dusty/sandy soil will also help to dry and thicken your skin which will in turn give you tougher feet.
This beats all the hardening rubbing alchohol can do.


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1972
Hi Medic1,

Welcome to the thread, looking at your profile, and for the area you are in, you are going to have some drive to get to one of the squadron locations. Your message leads me to think you are currently serving, so all you would need to do is contact your nearest location and express your wish to join. (click on my profile and access the website for details) Most of our medics keep a very high standard of fitness however this is generally due to their personal pride and not down to specific employment requirements. If you want to join our Support Medics you will be joining a very highly skilled and motivated team. If you fit the bill the only extra essential asset will be a cracking sense of humour. Because with the lads you will be working with and for, you will need it !!!!

After speaking to your nearest location, if there is a position available you will then probably get a posting. Please don't quote me on this as I am not 100% on the proceedure and the manning requirements of our support team.

Good luck and let us know how you get on

72


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dangermouse007

hi u.f.i

i think i can suss out your email address, i'll send you something let me know if you get it!!!!

Dm


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upforit
yeah sure go for it. ill reply as soon as i get it.
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blobmeister
Hi 1972

i was just wandering - you look at these previous guys like chris ryan and hes massive! very muscley - and its always said about the sas that you need a lot of upper body strength and strong legs etc............

but i was just wandering is being really strong a must for sas? because you look at these iron man competitors and most of them are really skinny and light weight - yet they can swim 4 miles, then run a marthon then cycle 100 miles - and do loads of other stuff as their life must be constant training. - overall theyre really lean guys, but super fit

and someone like me - im 11 stone, and some of the bergens you carry are like 6 - 7 stone , i could never see me carrying that, id fall right over lol (or get knackered after a few yards!) its like almost carrying me!

so i was just wandering, can light weight guys pass selection? - thanks for your help


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
upforit

im guessing you didnt get it right, ah well... dont think it would be wise to say anything else on here about it. im sure ill speak to you guys on here if not any other way, as ive said before hope all the training goes well and you get what you deserve, the beret and belt.



--------------------------------------------------------------------------------


11th November 2005

Verity


we will remember them


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1972

blobmeister wrote:
Hi 1972

so i was just wandering, can light weight guys pass selection? - thanks for your help


Blobmiester,

The simple answer is yes !! lighter men can pass selection. We have some lads who are about 11 stone in the squadron. Its mainly about mental strength. The weights you carry on selection are as heavy as you suggest in your mail.

I once thought that all regiment blokes were rugged, chiselled jaws, mexican bandit tashes and can leap 10 storey buildings. This is untrue. I have never had a tash ! ha ha

No matter how heavy you are, if you adjust your training accordingly everyone has a chance of passing !!

72

Remember.


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
medic1
1972

cheers, that's helpful. I've seen the talk on the 12 week training programme, how available are these? Much as I'd like one I don't suppose they're given out willy-nilly? I have a couple of aforementioned obstacles to clear before I'd be in a position to attend the local unit anyway, also, if for some perverted reason one might want to undergo the same training that these guys are doing, is this available to the medics?

thanks in advance

medic1

ps WHAT DO THEY TEACH IN HISTORY AT SCHOOL THESE DAYS? DON'T PEOPLE UNDERSTAND WHY THEY SHOULD SHUT THEIR MOUTHS FOR JUST 2 MINUTES!!

not that I expect you to know the answer. just venting


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1972
If you look back over the thread you will see that fash has posted some great training info. You could always look at that for inspiration.

As for joining in, the medics can really be as active as they like. Within reason. So you will be able to do plenty of stuff to keep the ticker ticking !!

As for respect from kids mate. We live in a different world nowadays but don't get me onto that or I will get angry and the recruits will suffer !! ha ha

Good luck and keep us posted

72


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
dangermouse007
good luck for the weekend happy, hope your times improve on last time mate x x x
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upforit
dangermouse, how come youre not on this weekend??? did you send that email? im off to the peaks tommorow, any hints for naving over hills??? cos i know it in theory but any practical hints would be well recieved
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dangermouse007
hi u.f.i

i was on the weekend, just a note for happy to read when he got back.. did send the email, i assume i got the address wrong... and the weekend was really nasty, without a doubt the hardest yet, especially the press ups of '72....! hope the training at the peaks goes well....!

Dm


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upforit

yeah went really well, although managed to lose my bergan down one of the hills, cos i threw it over a fence so that i could cross it. was pretty funny at the time, some quite nasty hills around there. did you use an underscore and spell my surname right? pressups with bergan by any chance, or is that just a pti trick?


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
fash

hard weekends are the best though DM and you know it bud if its not hard its not worth doing cause every bugger and his auntie would do it, seriously though stage you guys are at the driftwood and pasangers should be gone work hard keep the goal in sight no dramas, hooks are well in
72 tut tut with the press ups m8 these guys will be doing your job soon do you want them to look better as they do it? lol me id have had them facing downhill with bergan on but im a pervert and i love that s%&t )
good weekend for me as well was full two days in field live firing section attacks and a meaty 10 miler at the end of it before a curry and beer with the old and bold (mad old buggers them )at TAC cant beat it and they pay you fantastical, for the interval wine, bath, bed yippee


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
155
Hi!,

My long term goal is to eventually try for selection. At the moment I dont have the fitness (obviously) and in my oppinion are not at the pysical peak to apply. Although this is the case I am training hard for the foreseeable future and entering into competitions for this training (including cambrian etc). If its possible 1972 do you think you could post some times that you think it would be a good idea to be making at specific distances while training and also aims for press ups etc.

Thanks for the help

155


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
geezerfella
Run like forest....Or failing that try and aim for the 8miler in an hr. Always a good starting point if you are serious. Once you can acheive this start your training.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

The_Happy_Wanderer
155
A difficult question.
I don't particularly rate my fitness at the start of the course. In the previous year my training was mostly in the gym, on weights, and that is pretty naff training for selection. I'd done quite a bit of winter climbing, which involves walking up big scottish mountains with packs on, and some running.
That was pretty much my state when I made an inquiry, and was surprised when I was told "turn up in 5 weeks."
Obviously I started training then, and have been hanging in since.
A lot fitter blokes have passed by the way, so it's not entirely a question of your starting fitness.
I don't think I'll be letting away any state secrets when I say that you'll be sent a pre-selection training programme and it builds up from a very low base. If you are contemplating Cambrian, I don't think you'll be starting at the beginning of it.

My advice- make the application to your local squadron and take it from there. If you are a long way 'behind the curve, you'll know straight away and it shouldn't cost you anything to delay 6 months and you'll be fit enough then.

Give it a go!

The Happy Wanderer


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
craz

I will be making that first call tomorrow. Ive decided to give it a go. if I dont do it now i will regret it for the rest of my life. age 32 is just a few months away. I will be aiming to join 23


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Verity

Good man! after all...life is not a rehearsal


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
run1974

Hi all,

I'll be trying for the reserve SF Signals reg at the next intake, and have made contact, and have filled in forms and have my intake dates e.t.c e.t.c

Anyway - training is going well - expect for the cold nights and early morning running - when the air is really cold - i'm fine whilst running, and am only doing about 5 milers, but when I get back home after warm down (10mins) my chest tightens and I cough for about 15 mins - is it going from cold to warm or something? It doesnt happen when its not cold....
Ta

run.


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Verity
Evening run....
Welcome aboard pet. Have you tried wrapping a scarf around your nose and mouth when you run? Surgical-type masks also are useful as breath warmers (paint it black and you can pretend you are Darth vader as you run)
Maybe worth a try anyway.
Staff will be around at some point and will give you an informed answer no doubt.
Good luck..and enjoy your crate of cyber stella pet.

dangermouse007
hello Happy W

hope your feeling ok, i'm just about recovered now, hope training is still on for the w/e? i know jimbob76 said he may be able to make sunday but wasn't 100% sure. but i want to get away friday night and get a whole w/e in...! let us know mate(check the weather for the area, it's great again)

Dm


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The_Happy_Wanderer
Been to the physio today, prognosis is good, though have the knee joints of 40-50yr old!
I'll have a word with them again tomorrow, to see what training they'll 'allow' me, and then let you know re: the weekend.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
face84
hey guys,
Been following the thread for a while now, thought id drop in and say hi!
Iv been in the TA for a few years now and was seriously considering trying out for 21 or 23. However i decided that i couldnt be doing with a normal day job so iv decided to join the regs. I start at RMAS in jan.
So im trying to get my fitness up to scratch as well, obviosly not to the same level as you guys tho, i try to bang out a cheeky 5 miles or so a day, gettin it done between about 35-39 mins dependin on how many beers iv had the nite before. Any tips on the phys would be very useful.

Hope the thread keeps going from strength to strength cos it definitly helps motivate me to keep my fitness up by reading what u guys are up to.

Face out


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
dangermouse007
hi happy,

you won't believe it, my knees is starting to hang out...! knackered up about a k from final rv on saturdays march, but felt fine by monday, now it's getting worst and i haven't done any phys, i was saving myself for the w/e, i'll try a knee support and prey that helps in time for whats round the corner! still ok for the w/e anyway, may just have to tone it down a bit and stroll round some routes

Dm


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
upforit
hey guys, hope you can give me some advice, i have been running quite a lot recently but i dont know whats happened, i seem to now be stuck running at 7 and a half minute miles what ever distance, can anyone recommend any tricks to increase speed.

cheers

ufi


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
run1974
Verity,

Thanks for the scarf tip - works fine, and thanks for the stella, i'll stick it in the fridge as an incentive for the beret & belt.
run


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Verity

run
Glad the scarf is doing the trick pet.

DM007
Not advice as I don't give that! but just a tiny bit of mother henning while it's quiet here.
Have you discovered Sorbothane insoles?
Fit them in your boots and I find they really take a fair bit of the impact out of each step. Make sure your trainers are the right ones for the job too.
'72 is always reminding you to stretch, stretch, and stretch again... Don't neglect this essential element at the end of any workout. Take it easy mate.


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The_Happy_Wanderer
DM007
Quite happy for toning it down. My [freakingly expensive] physio wouldn't be happy if he knew I was even taking it easy!

But what do they know, eh?
Catch you at the 'campsite' tomorrow.
except that's now 'today'- must hit the sack.
Happy Wanderer


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
blobmeister
Hi Verity - I was just wandering, ive heard all about this being flexible for exercise and when i exercise i do, do warm ups and stretches etc but i was just wandering what the benefits of doing them are?

I quite like swimming and was looking into some olympians and all of them can pretty much touch their toes and i heard the same went for sas blokes being really flexible - so im guessing.......all fit ppl seem to be flexible - so just wandering how flexibility helps! thanks for your help


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Verity
Hi Blob
Staff will answer your question on stretching pet.
It's clear you're intrigued by the whole idea of Selection...are you starting to think this is something that you too could work towards?
Tea & crumpets coming up ...
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
obiwan
Hi All,

Been following this thread since it started. Got an interest in the course myself and as a total civvy saw this as great source of information.

Reading back over a few points this morning I have noticed that 1972 has got no link anymore ?

Does anyone know what has happened ?

Obiwan, may the force be with you.

Any chance of that cyber stella Verity ?


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Verity
A crate of Stella and a packet of crisps for that mans powers of observation!

This thread is very ground breaking and has clearly demonstrated to the Regiment the possible successful use of the internet as a very valuable recruitment tool.

This discussion here has worked very well and aside from the men who have become interested in attempting selection and have actually asked for advice and information here, there has undoubtedly been many many men who have followed the thread but not posted.

This thread, thanks to everyone who has posted on it to date has been successful.
Well done 1972 who saw an opportunity, by giving sound advice, to save more than a few pairs of knees from being injured before even reaching pre-selection!

1972 would only stop posting on this site if there was a good reason. I indicated a while ago a change to this site that posed a concern to me.
In one weeks time (25th November) the current site editor leaves the site and is replaced.
From that date I have no assurance that posts that may pose a risk to security will be removed or edited upon my request.
The whole thing then becomes a liability rather than the asset it is at the moment.
I suspect that this is the issue
I suspect that drawing a line under this particular venue shortly may be the wisest course of action.

I am currently in the process of copying this discussion thread (with the current editors kind permission) to a new msn group so that the advice in it can be preserved for other men considering the course.
It may be considered acceptable that we can continue this discussion there, where anonymity can be guaranteed for all and where posts can be moderated before they appear.

I've no wish to push things faster than these issues are discussed and decided by those who know best, but for reference the test website is linked in my profile and below (a new hotmail account will be needed)
The very unoffical site may or may not be approved to become active.
Time will tell.

Well done Lads. Stay very safe. All of you.

http://groups.msn.com/SASRSelection


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
obiwan

Is that it then ?

Is this thread going to continue without 1972 ?

Is there anyone who will take over ?

Help, 1972 your my only hope ! (not really)but we could do with you.

obiwan


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upforit
obiwan, if 72 has left, ask happy wanderer, dangermouse or jimbob, as they are on the course, so im sure they will have some tips and tricks to share. but be under no illusions, it is not easy, get as fit as you possibly can before you turn up for preselection,and get into the hills as often as you can.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
dangermouse007
hi verity,

cheers for the advice on the insoles... i put a knee support on aswell and to be honest felt really good. however it all went pete tong on the hills today. went down to the obvious and took a stroll round with happy w with minimal weight i might add. all was going really well for about an hour then the pain returned and i was limping all the way back to the car...! and had to bin yet another weekends training.
what is odd, is that now less than five hours later it feels almost cured, and i feel like a fake and think i should have continued, even though back at the car i couldn't bend it....! has anyone got any idea what this is and a quick remedy would be nice, need it working again for next weekend

cheers

Dm


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Verity
Until now we knew that any posts that needed removing would be dealt with upon request, but the site editor is unfortunately changing this week so we probably won't have any control over removing posts that are a security risk.

I therefore consider it to be unsafe to continue this discussion at this venue.

I am in the process of copying this thread so that it can continue to be publicly viewed (with the editor's kind permission) to a new msn group where it would be also possible for men to join using a new hotmail address and for the moderators to check on each and every post before its cleared and seen on the site.

That site may or may not become active- It will hold this discussion so far but If the DS want to use it we can easily shift the discussion over to there instead and continue with it.
If not, then the thread ends here until the chaps decide how to proceed.
You may wish to bookmark the msn site-

http://groups.msn.com/SASRSelection/

Please just hang fire guys and bear with the 'cloud of unknowing' for now!

The advice 1972 constantly gave remains the same now. He regularly encouraged you lads to just pick up the phone, give your local squadron a ring and speak to them directly if you have any enquries.



--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
fash

if the pain is worse as you go down hill and is on the outside of the knee it sounds to me like ITBS (illatobial tension band syndrom), this is basicaly where the muscles in the quads devolp faster than the ligiments can take leading to shortening of the ligiment which manifests its self as extreme pain on the outside of the knee cap (where the tendon is basicaly pulling away from the bone), only way to cure it and continue with course is to stretch LOTS do an internet search on it you will see loads i knew a guy on my cadre faild his first go with this on test week after stretching specificaly for this he then went on to pass never got muddy either the git he was one of them bryll cream good looking guys that get really fit just walking down the street carrying the weight of girls hanging off their legs