I was just released from the Canadian Forces basic training, and as pathetic as this sounds, I signed a voluntary release on my 3rd day. There were small reasons, like I didn't have any idea what I was getting into when I signed up, but the main reason was I collapsed twice when standing at attention with my platoon, the first time was 30 minutes into standing up, the 2nd time was 15 minutes standing outside an instructor's office.
I wonder what it's like for every other recruit in the army. Is it easy for them to stand still during drill? Are they thinking "Hmm it's been an hour, my legs are getting tired," and not "Oh God, I'm starting to black out, the blood sugar's draining from my head!" I have this issue. I can stand up for long periods, as long as I can move muscles freely. It must be great to be one of those that doesn't worry about this issue, that standing up for long periods of time doesn't bother them a bit. Anyone got their 2 cents on this issue?
2007-04-07 05:39:15 · 10 answers · asked by grandmas_boy1985 1 in Politics & Government ➔ Military
There is no regulation that states you had to be perfectly still. There are ways to gently and slowly flex the muscles in your legs and back to allow the movement to help keep you going, while not being too obvious about it. If you have the option, the military is a good thing and perhaps you can get back in.
Good luck.
2007-04-07 06:12:55 · answer #1 · answered by Unforgiven Shadow 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Its something that you're going to have to get use to, but there are tricks around it. First, don't let yourself go into a trance or daze, you'll be more prone to fainting then. Keep yourself occupied in small ways by doing stuff like flexing your muscles in your legs or anywhere for that matter (but of course, make it so its not very noticeable, you don't want to get bitched at I'm sure). As was said above, don't lock your knees, every 5-10 minutes very very slowly bend your knees alittle bit, again to avoid notice. Also, the kinds of food you eat might have an effect. If you're diabetic, then blood sugar might be a problem, I'm not sure... If its really hot out, make sure you drink plenty of water, and avoid drinking milk on hot days, it will possibly make you sick or even make you dizzy.
I've never had this problem unfortunately, so all of this is from experience with others, hope it helps!
2007-04-07 06:05:42 · answer #2 · answered by Jumbo Baby 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
There is something BEYOND just locking your knees if you've fainted after a mere 15-30 minutes !! I might see a doctor to check blood-pressure and your heart.
I was Navy, and we did alot of standing at attention during basic, then Aircrew and SAR schools... you just carefully flex your knees and leg muscles.
The times I REALLY remember folks fainting was at the annual Change of Command at my squadron... it ALWAYS took place about 2 weeks before we changed to summer uniforms, BUT the San Diego weather was warm ! We'd stand out on the flight-line in those damned dress-blues (wool), and there was always 3-4 folks falling out after 45 minutes to an hour.
Interestingly though... never an aircrewman or pilot falling out... maybe we were just in better shape / health.
Sorry to hear you couldn't finish.
2007-04-07 07:00:55 · answer #3 · answered by mariner31 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
The way I compare BCT is with football practice - get ready to get yelled at, pushed to your physical limits for an undetermine amount of time each and everyday.
If you can't do that, then don't join the military. It sounds like you have some physical issues, this is why it is important to disclose all information to your recruiter. I'm sure if you told him of this problem, he would have sent you out his door before ever making you sign a contract.
Plus, isn't it common sense that you will be standing still for long periods of time in the military? If you know you have problems doing that, then why did you join?
2007-04-07 05:52:26 · answer #4 · answered by aristotle1776 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Well generally when you lock your knees you WILL faint. Why didn't anyone mention that while you were there? That and make sure you drink enough but not to much water should be something they are saying to you over and over during basic.
2007-04-07 07:31:19 · answer #5 · answered by fire_goddess444 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
No amount of time in the military will prepare you for standing at attention for long periods of time. People pass out all the time. The trick is to bend your knees ever so slightly. For some reason when you lock your knees it affects circulation and makes you pass out. It really becomes a issue of mind over matter. I have stood in many formations where I just knew I was going at any second. I managed to stay standing but it was tough. I have seen men and women who have been in for years pass out. Its nothing to be embarrassed by.
2007-04-07 05:52:22 · answer #6 · answered by melissaw219 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Stop locking those knees! Drill Sergeants don't turn anybody on and it couldn't possibly be swooning for one!
2007-04-07 06:04:36 · answer #7 · answered by ShadowCat 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
What possible need would Canada have for Armed Forces?
They allow invasions from Asia and literally encourage it.
I worry there will be so few Canadians left in their population. We will need to get all our ice hockey players from Euro and Russia.
Dude, not everyone belongs in the military. You found that out the hard way. There's no shame in it.
2007-04-07 06:01:36 · answer #8 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 2⤋
yes this is not a individual thing, this is working together to make sure everone is together, in combat you would put your self and the whole Plt. in danger, THINK ABOUT IT.
2016-03-17 21:20:40 · answer #9 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Ya locked your knees, thats why.
2007-04-07 05:42:54 · answer #10 · answered by Anonymous · 2⤊ 0⤋