Stew Smith Fitness News — special ops

START ADDING RUCKS FOR FIRST PHASE BUD/S BOYS!  RUCKING ON THE BEACH = PAYS TO BE A WINNER.  FIRST PHASE ATTRITION RATES ARE HIGH AS EVER!  IF YOU ARE NOT USED TO RUCKING / RUNNING / HIGH REP PT - IT COULD PUT YOU IN THE MAJORITY.  SEE  Ruck / Run Progression ArticleFor many, the term “ruck” is a new word.  Defining RUCK is difficult to someone who has never moved out with 50+ lbs in a backpack for many, many miles.  The definition can be as simple as walking around with a backpack on a hike or as difficult...

This week I received similar emails from two young men who aspire to become SEALs one day. They both are athletic and involved with sports and asked the following question: The High School Question "I'm very uncertain about whether to do winter track or swimming and diving... Have there been BUD/S graduates from USNA who have learned how to swim AFTER they came to the Academy? I'm really not sure what to do and the deadline for sign-up is approaching. Please answer me ASAP! Thanks." The College Question "I am trying for an OCS BUDS billet after I graduate college....

Often I get great ideas from readers who are training to become Special Operators. Many times it is difficult to find a place to swim or with someone competent enough to watch you while you do underwater swims. My rule has always been – NEVER SWIM ALONE – PERIOD. And do not try to push 50m underwater or drown-proofing without trained personnel observing for safety. However, I received a great idea the other day from Jason – check it out.Stew - Reading about underwater swims and how the Naval Special Warfare Command discourages the practice without proper supervision has caused...

The Special Warfare Combatant Crewmember (SWCC) of today is the product of years of history. Since 1963, when one of the father's of Special Warfare - Phil Bucklew commanded and developed the Special Boat Units of today to specifically support the SEALs and UDTs during the Vietnam War. Since then, the "Brown Water Navy" has distinguished themselves and are now one of the three components of the Naval Special Warfare Command (SEAL Teams, SEAL Delivery vehicle (SDV) Teams, and Special Boat Units). These high-tech, high-speed boats make up the maritime component of the U.S. Special Operations Command.SWCC PST Standards:  Your...