Thinking About Becoming A Navy SEAL? Important Things You Need To Know

With the recent JSOC raid on Usama bin Laden’s Abbottabad compound, there’s been a large surge in the popularity of everything SEAL, including Navy SEAL training . There’s no question about it; these men suffer and endure through some of the most dangerous and challenging military courses in the world, and it all starts with the PST (physical screening test).

At the core of any training program for an aspiring SEAL should be a strong base of calisthenics and running, which will prepare you not only for the physical screening test but for the extreme physical demands of BUD/S (Basic Underwater Demolition/SEAL school). You can review the minimum PST requirements about halfway down the page here.

Keep in mind that these represent the absolute minimum, and candidates scoring this low on the PST have a very small chance of successfully completing BUD/S. This is due in part to not meeting necessary scores on evolutions and/or overuse injuries from lack of proper fitness. Many strive for 80-100 pushups and situps, 15+ pullups, and a couple minutes under on both the swim and the run.

Another popular consideration is to attend a SEAL inspired training course .This gives you the best opportunity to get a real idea of both BUD/S training, as well as an idea of what it’s like to be on a team. The Navy doesn’t have the same type of combat arms programs as the Army and Marines, so it’s a great idea to attend a camp and “try it on” to make sure you’re ready and that this is something you really want to commit to.

Alternatively, it’s still a great option for those who are looking to really push themselves to new limits, both in physical and mental stamina. This type of training is designed to take participants beyond their normal physical limitations and to demonstrate that with the proper mindset, the body is capable of going further and pushing harder than many people think they are capable of. Of course, remember to consult a physician before beginning any exercise program or training regimine.