Hello Everyone! I know it's been forever since I posted. I ended up getting really busy prepping for USCG Basic Training and never ended up updating the blog. I apologize, but it was worth it. I just graduated on Friday with LIMA Company 187! If you're getting ready, don't worry, it's TOUGH, but you can do it. The first few weeks are the hardest. The CC's really get on you and most of your Company will be sloppy in all aspects of Cape May life, but especially marching. It took a little while for all of us to get in step, but once we did, it felt awesome.
The biggest advice I can give those of you reading this is to GET READY BEFOREHAND. Everything you do is timed, and there is virtually NO ROOM FOR MISTAKES. I have to say that the Coast Guard Boot Camp Survival Guide really helped me out. The stuff in the book, especially the PRACTICE NOW tips put me way ahead of the rest of my company and let me stay under the radar somewhat. I still screwed up here and there, mainly from being nervous and sleep deprivation, but I didn't rack up too many performance trackers.
As for the physical stuff, I used the Coast Guard Boot Camp Fitness Success Program, which is the sister manual to the Coast Guard Boot Camp Survival Guide that you get for free when you buy the Survival Guide. When I left for Cape May, I got my numbers well beyond what was necessary to pass, but when I took the actual test, I did a little bit worse. Before leaving I was able to do 72 push-ups, 80 sit-ups, and run the 1.5 miles in 9:35. For the actual test, I got 64 push-ups, 71 sit-ups and I ran the 1.5 in 10:12. Not too shabby. Anyways, you need to make sure you are way above the requirements because you'll be sleep deprived and stressed when you take the test.
Feel free to comment if you have any questions, but the bottom line is that anyone can do it if they are determined enough. If you want to make it easier, then definitely check out the info I gave you. It's the best way to prepare for Coast Guard Boot Camp.
Semper Paratus!!
