Top Ten Things to Google Before Asking Me (or any other Veteran)

Take Some Initiative
- Do Basic Research for Future Profession -
THEN Ask Specific Questions for More Information if Needed


Google Doodle By Emily Newman

Though these are legitimate questions many people may have during the consideration process of joining the military, they are easily found online and mainly reference material that rarely any human will ever remember - even a Veteran!  Besides, most of the common questions first asked tend to change over time with new programs developed, new enlistment procedures, updated standards, and the needs of the military.  Finding a source that is up to date can also be a challenge.  This article will help you with the first steps of research though it is up to you to continue the journey, taking the initiative and preparing for your future. 

PLEASE do not take this as I do not care that you are wanting to serve this great country in our military.  I am grateful EVERYDAY for those young men and women even considering military service, but there are a few things you need to know.  The first one is LEARN TO TAKE SOME INITIATIVE. 

If you really want to serve, you should be preparing yourself NOW! Not just exercising to be a more durable physical performer, but what are the jobs you are interested in doing? Where do you want to live after basic training? Take a look at where the bases are in the military and where your job may take you. What uniforms do you like the best? This may matter to you. What job skills learned in the military will be transferable to the civilian world?  This SHOULD matter to you as you will be out of the military one day. Have an idea of the above issues BEFORE you go and talk to a recruiter,  because if you go into the recruiter and say, " I am not sure what I want to do - what do I qualify for?"  The military has a place for you, but it may not be a career you actually want to do making the next few years of your life not as fun as you may have envisioned. 

The second thing to learn long before you talk to a recruiter is you should be ready to serve. Needing to lose weight, get in shape, and finish school is something many have to do.  Consider these meetings with a recruiter a job interview.  To be taken seriously - BE READY.  (See Ready to Serve)

These are Ten Questions that many veterans receive from young recruits or those interested in serving.  But see the links below as the links to good information are provided for you - now you just have to read it. 

Related Topic - Stupid Questions and Why They Are Stupid - Video 

 The Top 10 Things You Should Google First:

1 - I want to serve but I don’t know what job I want to do. What are the jobs in the military?  See official links below as they are linked to the hundreds of jobs of each specific branch of service. 


2 - How long is __________ Training? - Depends on what training you are talking about?  Each service has basic training or boot camp training typically in the 8-9 week range (Army, Navy, Air Force, Coast Guard).  Marines are 12 weeks and definitely the hardest of all basic training if you want to know that question. 

3 - What are the height and weight requirements?  Depends on your age, but you have to search this reference material, as each height and age has different weight standards - no human will be able to recite this information.  Find up-to-date standards by asking Google - "height weight requirements 2020" and type in the branch of service as well, as they tend to be different as well. 

4 - What are the vision requirements to become a _________? Is PRK and LASIK approved?  Google "2019 vision requirements for (military job)" you are seeking.  Pilots, SEALs, and other special ops units have stricter standards and typically all must be correctable to 20/20 with varying standards.  Find this info on OFFICIAL military websites as older articles could be outdated. 

5 - I had two surgeries when I was in high school. Do I still qualify? I do not know - it depends on what the issue was and if you are 100% cured / healed.  One thing for sure - any surgery will require a waiver so you have to have ALL your medical documents in hand - Medical Record, Surgeon Report, Notes, Physical Therapy Release, etc.  Make copies as it could get "lost" in military medicine. 

6 - I have a medical condition called ___________? Am I medically qualified or will I need a waiver?  This is a LONG list of medical conditions that will prevent you from serving. Here is an article I use for basic info when asked, but if you have to ask, it is likely an issue that would require a waiver.  The official DoD Requirements (link)

7 - What are the fitness requirements to become a ___________?  There are countless standards within the military between the different branches of service, units within the branches, and advanced training programs as well.  In fact, the individual answers can likely be found on official site, but I have spent years writing programs for just about EVERY fitness test and training program that exits. 

8 - How do I Prepare for military service physically? Academically? Professionally? Mental toughness? To be honest, general fitness available in most athletic history will be enough to get you through boot camp / basic training programs, however, if you want to do something tougher (special ops / special programs), your specific training matters. Swimming, Running, Rucking, higher rep calisthenics, load bearing, and other skills need to be practiced.  Becoming a Tactical Athlete is a requirement and knowing the phases of tactical fitness is a must.  You can actually prepare for years an not be ready if you do not get specific to the demands of future programs.  ASVAB - Take practice tests - actually study for this one. Mental Toughness - Get tougher - See link Building Mental Toughness

9 - I was arrested as a teenager for _________. Can I still serve?  Well - that depends on severity of arrest and the needs of the military. See article.  Though there are "moral waivers".  You have to find a recruiter willing to work with you up the waiver approval process.  Felony waivers are tough to get and not even possible in some branches of service.

10 - If I have tattoos on my __________? Can I still join? There are standards for tattoos, piercings as well. The tattoo policy has been updated recently, and each branch of service has slight differences.  See up-to-date article on the topic:  Army tattoo policy


Preparation Starts Early

Even when you are a kid, you can start your journey to prepare for military service. Do activities that involve teamwork - sports, clubs, theater, band, etc.  Do activities where you mentor younger students/kids like martial arts, tutoring, team captain, etc.  Stay out of trouble and away from illegal activities because a criminal record could derail your future even as a teenager.  Stay away from drugs as they are illegal and do nothing to help you become a better person.  Prepare your body to become a Tactical Athlete - Learn more about the Three Phases of the Tactical Athlete and how to train specifically for the tasks at hand.

Your Mission Starts Now

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There is More To StewSmithFitness.com than You May Know

Dive deeper into the world of Tactical Athlete training and mental toughness by exploring Stew Smith Fitness Programming for the Tactical Athlete online store. Uncover the strategies and techniques used by elite forces to push past physical and mental barriers. Visit StewSmithFitness.com now and equip yourself with the tools for success in many special ops-level selection programs in the military and police world. 

Here is a list of what we do at StewSmithFitness.com

Who is Stew Smith? Coach, Trainer, Author, Podcaster 

I'm the former Navy SEAL that special ops candidates go to for books, ebooks and online coaching to prepare themselves to get to and through intense tactical assessment and selection programs and qualify for service in their chosen tactical profession.  See More at StewSmithFitness.com

Core Mission

Specific Programs & Courses

Resources and Content

Discover the Secret to Unlocking Your Best Health After 50 (latest program developed)

As you cross the wonderful milestone of 50, you might find that your body doesn’t quite bounce back the way it used to. You’re not alone in this—many men and women in your age group are searching for ways to revive their fitness levels without feeling overwhelmed. That’s where longtime coach and fitness writer Stew Smith’s newest book, "The Ageless Athlete: Fitness Over 50," comes into play. This book may just be the spark you need to ignite your fitness journey.

Truth is, there are people over 60 and 70 doing this workout. Even the advanced section. It works and will help you progress from beginner to intermediate to advanced. 


Remember, as you age, your training needs to adapt.

Have you been thinking about getting back in shape but don’t know where to start?

Imagine waking up each day with more energy, flexibility, and the drive to embrace life head-on. Stew Smith, a seasoned fitness expert with 56 years of experience, has crafted a program specifically for guys like you—men who may feel overwhelmed by fitness options or unsure what’s suitable for their age. With his 22-week plan tailored to beginners, intermediates, and advanced practitioners, you will find exactly what you need to suit your current fitness level.

Training is What We Do: 

Need Programming for Fitness Tests and Beyond?  We are all about getting you TO and THROUGH your future training program.  See how that works.  

New Tactical Fitness Training Course!

Getting TO the training does not guarantee you get THROUGH the training. Learn about the two phases of tactical fitness you need to develop thoroughly before getting to BUDS. Check out the Online Course - Getting TO and THROUGH Special Ops Selection.

Where to Find More Information About Optimal Performance Training Programs

When you start training again, consider the seasonal tactical fitness model.  I call it A WAY to train and obviously not the only way to train. But it offers the opportunity to never neglect your weaknesses, improves flexibility and mobility, and puts you at a level of physical ability where you are happy with your overall ability to do just about anything. We have a system where the seasons dictate our training. When it is nicer outside, we tend to run and do more calisthenics.  When it is colder and not so nice, we lift more, run less, and still maintain our outdoor activities with shorter runs and rucks. Check it out: Seasonal Tactical Fitness Periodization System.  

Online Coaching Options

Online Coaching is Available with Stew Smith Fitness - Weekly Workouts created personally for you.


New Members' Only Content / Services Program!

If you want access to years' worth of workouts, many of the top eBOOKs, favorite workouts of the week, a free fitness APP, a closed Facebook Group, a video/picture library of exercises, and more access to LIVE Q/A sessions, check out the Stew Smith Fitness Members Section. 

The dashboard below has the links to all the information, archives, videos, and links to workouts, podcasts, live Q and A lessons. 

Consider this! - A Membership Program and Gain Access to Exclusive Content
(click for Fitness Club Dashboard - members only)

Best of all, if you have questions, email Stew Smith himself (Stew@stewsmithfitness.com).  Join the tactical fitness group discussions, latest articles, LIVE QA videos, swim critiques, podcasts, and much more at the Stew Smith Tactical Fitness Training Closed Group on Skool.

 

Questions?  Just email - Stew@StewSmithFitness.com


What Training Program is Right for Me?

This is a very common question and the answer is always - "IT DEPENDS."

It depends on many factors that also depend on each other.  For instance, if this was asked by a 19 yr old male seeking Navy SEAL Training, the options are the following:

      

It depends:  The Complete Guide to Navy SEAL Fitness is a classic and focuses on high rep calisthenics and running and swimming base.  You will build up your running over 12-18 weeks to 20 miles but very fast paced focus on both the 1.5 mile run for the PST and the 4 mile timed run for weekly run test at BUDS. If you are an athlete with a strong power / strength background in lifting and not running or swimming, Navy SEAL Fitness is ideal for you. IF you need some place to start Navy SEAL Fitness is ideal for you as well because a calisthenics base / running / swimming progression is a good place to build a foundation.  Though you will likely need to spend some time in the Navy SEAL Weight Training Book OR if Navy SEAL FItness is too challenging, go with Navy SEAL SWCC, EOD, Diver, PST Phase 1 Workout.  Phase 1 is a good starting point if Navy SEAL Fitness program is too tough. 

Navy SEAL Weight Training - This is part two (winter lifting phase) of my SEAL Prep program. If you have done the Navy SEAL Fitness (12 weeks to BUDS) program a few times and need a break, this is the next program that integrates lifting with the Navy SEAL Prep training. This is ideal for people who have come from an endurance athlete background.  Athletes like swimmers and runners will also require some strength training as you will be exposed to challenges under logs and boats during the first phase and many miles of rucking 50+ lbs of backpacks and gear in 2nd and 3rd phases of BUDS.  Do not skip lifting in your year of training prep.  However, if you are coming from a powerlifting / football background, supplementing a few lifts into your endurance / muscle stamina focus plan is something you may enjoy especially if training for a year or more during your prep phase. 

Navy SEAL / SWCC, EOD, Diver Program Series - Phase 1 is what I call a beginner guide, but it is still challenging.  It is geared toward those who are scoring minimally or failing their Navy PST test - 500yd swim, pushups, situps, pullups, 1.5 mile run.  It is easier than The Complete Guide to Navy SEAL Fitness and a good prep course before attempting it. 

Phase 2 and 3 of the Navy SEAL / SWCC, EOD, Diver program is about the same level of intensity as Navy SEAL Fitness and is also a good follow-up plan after Phase 1. 

Phase 4 ot the Navy SEAL Key to Mental Toughness is by far my toughest workout ever created.  It resembles a day of BUDS, complete with "wet and sandy", runs after eating, high rep punishment push-ups, 4 mile timed runs, 2 mile swims with fins, log PT simulation, and even a HellWeek Simulator with 3 workouts a day.  

Tactical Fitness Series - Tactical Fitness, Tactical Strength, and Tactical Mobility is an ALL-encompassing program that focuses on lifting, calisthenics, run, ruck, swim, speed, agility, and flexibility / mobility. Many people focusing on USMC (OCS, RECON, MarSOC) Army Ranger / SF, Air Force Special Warfare, SWAT / Federal Law Enforcement, and Navy Special Warfare have done very well focusing on the Tactical Fitness Series and developing themselves into an all-round Tactical Athlete. 

Tactical Fitness - At the core of this program is the Tactical Fitness Test which measures 12 standards for your physical capacity, including: cardiovascular conditioning, strength, muscle coordination, and stamina. Tactical fitness means having the skills needed to save lives and extend the limits of your endurance whether you are in the military, police, firefighting professions, or just an everyday hero. Also featured in the Tactical Fitness Test called the Dirty Dozen.

Tactical Strength - Tactical Strength is the lifting program used by Stew Smith and his Military, Police, Fire Fighter fitness program called the Heroes of Tomorrow. It is designed to build strength in the upper body, legs, and core to prepare you better for any load bearing activity (rucking, boat carry, log PT, etc). The program also does not neglect cardiovascular activity and will end workouts with rucking or swimming (or other non impact options (row, bike, elliptical) if needed. The cardio workouts will be quick and fast focusing more on speed and agility than long slow distance. We also use the Tactical Strength Test to test elements of speed, agility, and strength / power.

Tactical Mobility is a comprehensive fitness guide for greater mobility, flexibility, and performance—designed for the men and women serving in military, special ops, law enforcement, emergency services. Tactical Mobility is a perfect fit for any fitness program as a stand alone "Mobility day" supplemented into your regular routine and will help you reach the pain free level of fitness. Gaining flexibility and mobility is the goal of the program and it will help with performance and help reduce injuries.

The Warrior Workout Series - If you are solid with making your own workouts, but need some ideas.  This three part series has 300 workouts (100 / book) to pick from focusing on all the elements of fitness and training programs. Each book is organized with periodization cycles in mind along with calisthenics only, weights / calisthenics mix, cardio options and more. Warrior Workout 1   -  Warrior Workout 2  -   Warrior Workout 3. 

More Options: Special Ops Running, Law Enforcement, Tactical Fitness 40+, Army Workouts, Army Special Forces, Air Force Special Warfare, USMC RECON / MarSOC Training...

     
and many more options as well as personalized training programs member's only program and the new :

Questions?  Just email me at Stew@StewSmith.com

See more info at the Navy SEAL Articles Page

 

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