Can anyone work out like a U.S. marine?

Question

Ive read almost everywhere that its not good to work out 7 days a week(with weights anyhow, because you need to give your muscles time to relax) but I went to a marines graduation and all I heard was how they worked out every day nearly ALL day and how the marines are in the best shape of their life. So if they can do it, why is it not good for everyone else to do it too?

Answer 1

I agree with the above posters. Many people who go to boot camp either were pretty inactive beforehand, or never really worked out much at all in their lives, so it would make a big difference with them in their overall fitness level. Those guys tend to struggle a great deal during this time. Also, what you may not hear much about are the consistent injuries sustained during these routines.

You have to realize that mostly the activities they go through during boot camp are very old, coming out of decades of tradition, and are designed to mold people mentally as well as physically. So, it's much more than mere "exercise". Newer studies show that, especially for those seeking simply to become more fit, a more gradual approach is appropriate. This not only allows the body to adjust to the new stresses being put on it, but helps prevent injury. Additionally, when your body never has a chance to recover, it's very difficult to build your fitness level to optimum.

For instance, when I joined, I was a strong runner who ran sub-six minute miles 30-35 miles per week. Going to boot camp actually SLOWED me down to where I had to build back up to my former speeds. This is because I had to slow down in order to stay together as a unit, and I didn't have adequate access to resources and time to build on my routines. And if you're a bodybuilder of powerlifter, forget about it. You'll lose a lot of muscle mass during that time.

Answer 2

To answer you question, no. Nobody can work out like a U.S. Marine. We are the most fierce, best fighting force in the world and are ready to go 24/7/365. Just like all other branches, there are Marines who are worthless and should not be in the military, but for the most part, Marines are always in shape. Most Marines don't work out with weights everday though. Like mentioned already, we do cardiovascular workouts almost everday. I workout 5 times a week and do cardio workouts 6 days a week. OORAH! SEMPER FI SUPPORT ARE TROOPS AND PRAY FOR THEIR SAFETY

Answer 3

I don't remember ever using weights in Marine Boot camp. Only the PCP's did. (injured or sick and getting back into it) We did run everywhere and all of the time did a lot of calistenitcs too. It would be tough to keep it up on your own with out someone to push you, but it won't kill you.

Answer 4

There is conditioning, and there is "working out". They don't lift weights and do aerobics all day, they simply live a constantly physically active lifestyle while they are in boot camp. There is a difference.