Army Basic Training is different for everyone. There are no two people who experience it in the same way. Ever. That being said, your attitude and perceptions and preparations can make a huge difference in what can only be described as a physically demanding, mentally challenging, life changing experience. You will discover abilities you never knew you possessed. You will learn how to lead your peers and how to work as a close-knit team. And you will be tired.

You Will Be Very Tired

You will be more tired than you have ever been. You will run, jog hike, swim, climb and every other possible form of fitness activity to get your body in its best shape ever. Sleep when you can and start getting into shape now. Don't put it off. Start sleeping on the schedule, and in the time zone, wherever you will receive Army Basic Training.

Go to bed at 9:00 p.m. and get up at 3:00 a.m. and start working out. You will need strength and cardiovascular training. Army Basic Training means plenty of push-ups, sit-ups, pull-ups and lots and lots of running. You will be running long and hard, so start getting used to it. Just don't hurt yourself. Be sure to stretch, warm up and cool down with each workout. Lift some weights every other day. Building your muscles and your stamina will have a major impact on your Army Basic Training experience.

Start carrying water around with you and drink it. Start eating a healthy diet that focuses on whole grains, fruits and vegetables and healthy oils, such as canola oil or olive oil. Quit smoking. Do whatever it is that you need to, to be better prepared for the physical demands of Army Boot Camp. You can gasp, wheeze and ache your way through Army Basic Training or you can rise to the challenge of this rigorous and exciting experience.

Yes, You Will Get Yelled At

Everyone gets yelled at, so don't take it personally. Learn from it. The Drill Instructors know what they are doing. Drill Instructors are skilled professionals, helping you to do your best. You will be pushed to your self-imposed limits and beyond. Later, you'll be glad the Drill Instructors yelled. For now, just watch the recruit that can't seem to figure it out. They always end up doing many, many push-ups...

It'll Be Worth It

You will be sleep deprived, muddy, gassed, injected, and given impossible-to-solve tasks, all to hone you into a precise, articulate, modern day warrior. You will have the latest skills with the most cutting edge technologies. You will be able to lead and follow effectively. You will be proud of who you are and what you can do. You will graduate from Army Basic Training standing taller, knowing that you are now the member of an elite fraternity of men and women whose teamwork, fitness and precision protect liberty around the world.