2006-12-28 04:50:25 · 4 answers · asked by Shaun T 2 in Politics & Government ➔ Military
The Fan Dance is one of the British Army’s most gruelling physical tests. Originally devised as a part of the initial training for the Parachute Regiment’s Battle School, the Fan Dance is now a test run by the Infantry Battle School, as a mandatory part of the training and selection for Section Commanders, Platoon Sergeants and Platoon Commanders throughout the Infantry. The Fan Dance also forms part of the selection course for UK Special Forces.
The 25km route of the Fan Dance starts at the base of Cefn Cyff and climbs up to the summit of Fan y Big. The route then follows around behind the peak of Cribyn, and ascends Jacob’s Ladder to the summit of Pen y Fan, the highest peak in the Brecon Beacons. It’s then a downhill run to Storey Arms, across the road and up to the north of Fan Fawr, and then down into the Nant Valley. The climb up to Fan Dringarth involves each platoon carrying a stretcher laden with water jerry cans equivalent to the weight of a fully equipped soldier. Once the ridge is reached, the route continues along the ridge of Cefn Perfedd over Fan Llia, and descends to the finish just on the far side of the Afon Llia. All of this is done wearing full battle dress and equipment, including weapons and ammunition, and should be completed within 4 hours. This all adds up to an astonishing test both mentally and physically, and ensures that the Infantry commanders who complete the course are indeed among the best in the world.
2006-12-28 04:59:05 · answer #1 · answered by dave a 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Pen Y Fan is very hard. Its also used for SAS and Parachute Regiment selection, these guys carry over 80 pounds of kit when they do it! The peaks are very steep in places and long long upward climbs. Good head for heights needed in some places. It depends what pace you want to hike at. Weather can be very changeable with strong winds rain and heavy fog that can appear in an instant even if the day starts fine. So its important to tell someone where you are going and the time your expected back. Bring a mobile phone too (signal can't be guaranteed) and survival equipment. Its a really great walk but certainly not for the faint hearted, that's why the special forces test themselves here!
2016-03-28 22:25:02 · answer #2 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Fan Dance Route
2017-02-20 22:24:58 · answer #3 · answered by ? 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Dave A is 100per cent correct...I haven't tried it but some of my muckers have and failed although they are nuts..>!
2006-12-28 16:31:48 · answer #4 · answered by stemmedporcupine 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋