Military Fitness - Marine RECON - The USMC Special OPS Units

There are two types of RECON Marine : "Battalion" & "Force" RECON

The training paths for Marines in both RECON units are similar. More advanced training focuses on a platoon's likely missions while deployed, so Battalion and Force RECON Marines basically differ only in who their boss is - either the Battalion Commander or the Task Force Commander.

Initial training consists of Marine Recruit Training, & the School of Infantry, training as a rifleman. Students are then assigned to the Basic Recon Course. Upon successful completion of the BRC, Marines report to their assigned recon unit & receive various professional, technical and tactical training.

Marine Recon INDOC 1st Force Recon's current "indoc" (indoctrination program) is a 48 hr. evolution. In order to even get invited to attend the indoctrination course, you must have between 3-4 years of experience in the field and should be scoring at least 285 on the Marine Corp PFT: But as with any Special Operation units, you must be a stellar Marine with a near flawless record.

                                                3 mile run (18:00min 100pts)
                                                20 pullups (dead hang) 100pts
                                                100 situps/2min. 100pts.

You will be required to perform two obstacle courses, swim 500 meters in full cammies, tread water 30 minutes in full camies and other fun water activities. It helps to prepare months in advance with swimming at least 4-5 times a week. Wear cammies and fins at least once a week too. Minimum swim practice time should be an hour daily.

You will also be required to perform what is called a Level Test which is:

                                                Max Push ups 2min.
                                                Max Sit ups 2min.
                                                Max Pull ups 2min.
                                                Max Flutter Kicks 2min.

Your calisthenic workouts should consist of the above exercises performed every other day for a total of 3-4 times per week. The day of PT rest will help your muscles recover and be able to gain more reps in two minutes. Also practice perfect form but do each of the exercises as fast as you can. Speed and endurance is your goal. Running is also a major part of INDOC. You should run at least 4-5 times per week and do a rucksack run once a week in order to prepare for the following:

                                  Forced March (or "Hump") for 20 miles @ 4-5mph
                                  Rucksack Run 3-4 miles timed (with 50 lb)

After repeating the Marine PFT again you get to interview with the Team Leader and Company CO/XO. You may physically make it but still not get selected. Usually it's attitude and teamwork that gets you rejected at this phase of INDOC.

Once selected, the Marines are assigned Recon Indoctrination Platoon. This is similar to going back to bootcamp. The Marines have only supervised liberty, physical training and classes at all time of the day and night. Ampihibious Reconnaissance School (ARS) in either Little Creek, VA or Coronado, CA. Once the Marine finishes ARS, he is a Reconnaissance Marine. OOH- RAH!

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