How difficult is boot camp?

Answer 1

Well, let's put it this way... if you're considering to join a military branch based upon how difficult of a bootcamp it has and you're looking for the easy route. The Coast Guard is not for you... or should I say, you're not Coast Guard material. There's a reason why it's the pickiest branch in the military and it only takes the most qualified recruits. How hard the boot camp is is usually determined by your Company Commanders. Some companies are easier than others; however, if you're put into a company with decicated CC's, you're in for a serious, rude wake-up call. USCG boot camp is physically demanding and mentally exhausting. I don't know one person who didn't at least once consider jumping the fence after the second week. There's a reason why we don't advertise ourselves like the other branches. Once you've completed boot camp, though, it is one of the most rewarding experiences. It challanges you in ways you thought you could be challanged and pushes you beyond all limits. You leave with a great sense of confidence, pride, honor, and respect. It really does change you for the better. And besides, it's just eight weeks. GO COAST GUARD!

To add: It's considered the second hardest basic training for U.S. military boot camps. It may be only eight weeks, but just imagine being completed changed from a normal civilian to a completely squared away military member. A lot of it is physically demanding, but the mental part is the main one you've got to worry about. You will get really sick, known as "the cape may crud." You will have to push through 6 plus weeks of being pretty sick and 20 hour days, people yelling in your face, running multiple miles, cold weather, hot weather. I stood at a wall facing our barracks...aka halls, for 3 hours because one guy in our company couldn't remember the vice president and that was just the beginning. Good luck joining if you think the coast guard is a piece of cake.

::: I went through Coast Guard Basic Training in January 1991. Many will tell you that it is the second toughest basic training, and they would be correct if you are talking only about the physical fitness aspect. The Coast Guard's basic training program also boasts the most difficult education program. Yes, you are learning and being educated while in boot camp. The Coast Guard Achieves their goal of basic training in 5 weeks less time than the average military force. That means they must not only break you down faster, they also have to build you back up quicker than the other branches. The end result is a squared away sailor who is ready to become an active member of a small unit operating independently, but as a small part of a larger force in the fight to secure our borders and protect the lives of those who venture out onto our waterways.

Do you believe you have what it takes? I saw 6 people quit while I was in basic training.

Answer 2

U.S Air Force boot camp is called BMT, "summer camp," and a few other things depending on company. Whatever you call it, get ready for six weeks that will turn you, at the very least, into a well trained and ready Airman. By graduation, you'll meet the fitness requirements that make airmen physically durable in almost any situation.

Prior to reporting for duty, you should begin your training at home. Following a recommended workout schedule, 3-5 times per week for at least the six weeks before you attend BMT will help you get ready for the challenges you'll face in basic training and beyond.

Basic Military Training will challenge you physically and mentally. You'll learn to follow instructions, help others and work as a team. You will grow with each success, and you'll gain confidence in your ability to achieve all of your dreams and goals.

On your assigned departure date, you will return to the Military Entrance Processing Station (MEPS) for a review of your enlistment papers and your physical testing results. You will be sworn into the active-duty Air Force during a special enlistment ceremony.

The Air Force will arrange and pay for your trip to San Antonio, Texas, where you'll be met and transported to Lackland Air Force Base. This is where you will enter Basic Military Training (BMT) and get your first real taste of life as a member of the taste of life as a member of the Air Force.

You will join about 45 other new airmen in a group called a Training Flight. You will meet your Military Training Instructor (MTI) who will take you to your dormitory and help you get settled in. The first few days are spent completing paperwork, receiving equipment and uniforms and gaining a clear understanding of the basic rules everyone follows in the Air Force.

When you arrive at Lackland, you will be referred to as "trainee." Your reporting statement will be, "Sir/Ma'am, Trainee XXXXX, reports as ordered." After completion of the 5th week of training, you will be referred to as "Airman." It's a good idea to rehearse your reporting statement before you arrive. You will be assigned to a "flight," a group of 30-60 trainees within a "Squadron." Each flight will have several TI's assigned to guide the trainees through BMT. The first few days (Zero week) will be spent getting haircuts, issuing equipment and clothing, and explaining the basics of dorm life. Most days begin at 0445 (4:45 a.m.) and end at 2100 (9:00 p.m.). You will receive three meals per day.

Week of Training (WOT) 1: Reporting and saluting, Medical and Dental Appointments, GI Bill briefing, ID Cards, Dorm Guard Class, Career Guidance, Individual Drill, Dorm Preparation, and Haircuts.

WOT 2: Personal Fitness, Dorm Inspection, Personal Appearance, Recognizing Military Insignia, Military Citizenship, Personal Interviews, Human Relations Class, and Flight Drill.

WOT 3: Second Clothing issue, Dorm Inspection, Haircuts, Flight Drill, Air Force History and Organizational Structure, Fitness and Nutrition, Educational Opportunities, Enlisted Force History and Heritage, Environmental Awareness and Resource Protection, Sexual Harassment, and Chain of Command.

WOT 4: Financial Management, Flight Pictures, Flight Drill, Military Citizenship, Career Progression, Enlisted Force Structure, Ethics, Core Values, and Air Force Rank Insignia.

WOT 5: Law of Armed Conflict, Code of Conduct, Security, Confidence Course, Marksmanship training, Field Training Experience.

WOT 6: Dorm Inspection, Hometown News Releases, Formal Retreat, Written test, Haircuts, Technical School Briefing, Commanders Departure Town Pass Briefing, Smoking Cessation, Orders Pick-up, and Graduation Parade.

Answer 3

That depends on what base you're sent to, and that depends on what mos you've chosen. If you're out of shape, immature, cocky, stubborn and too blunt, boot camp will be pretty rough for you. If you can run further than 10 yards, know when to keep your mouth shut, can listen and do what you're told in an orderly fashion, you'll be ok.

There's a lot of yelling, you do a lot of running, a lot of push ups, and you get very little sleep. The best way to make it easier is to be where you're supposed to be, when you're supposed to be there, in the correct uniform. Always be respectful and courteous, not just to the DI's. AND ALWAYS BE MOTIVATED, or atleast act like you are. Give everything 120%. Don't quit or give up on anything. Do this and you'll be fine.

Answer 4

It's the same as boot camp for the active duty. Very challenging. My son went through two years ago and survived it. It also depends what branch you join.

Answer 5

For most people it is very hard. If you are someone who is in shape it will be easier for you then someone who is not used to working out.