More Suggestions for Air Assault

Everything I will write must be taken with the following in mind, I was only at Air Assault for two days. This is not to say that I don't know what I am talking about; all my advice will be built upon being prepared for zero day. The first area I would like to address is training (physically) for the obstacle course, two mile run, and simply being smoked. The first challenge will be the rope. Any preparation should involve a great deal of rope climbs and upper body workouts. These should be done following other exercises because you won't be simply walking up to the rope. You will be getting smoked before you ever get near it. This is where the preparation for being smoked will come in handy. We all know the cliche exercises: flutter kicks, overhead arm claps, and finally close hand push-ups. This ability to handle goofy exercises between the major ones will make a world of difference. Being physically ready will also help ease the mind. Knowing that you are prepared for anything that can be done will reduce the anxiety and fear of the unknown. Once you are physically ready, it comes time to pack and prepare your gear. Air Assault is based completely on attention to detail. Any small problem with an item will continue to cause problems. Examine every piece of clothing and equipment for any problems. If you find something, replace it. After preparing everything on the packing list, begin packing extra items, insuring that they are as serviceable as the other items. These will come in handy if something goes wrong. The final packing is the non-essential items. Pack as though you won't be able to get to the store for the entire time. Little life items that you enjoy like candy or ibuprofen are key. Also I would recommend a woobie. A few small items may make a big difference.