Transform Your Fitness: Military Style Training Tips from an Ex UK Soldier

Getting fit can feel overwhelming with so many workout plans and diets out there. But what if you could train like someone who has faced some of the toughest physical challenges? Military style personal training, especially from an ex UK soldier, offers a practical and effective approach to building strength, endurance, and mental toughness. This post shares key tips and insights from military training that anyone can apply to transform their fitness.

What Makes Military Style Training Different?

Military training focuses on functional fitness. That means exercises and routines designed to prepare the body for real-world physical demands, not just looking good in the mirror. An ex UK soldier’s training emphasizes:

• Full-body strength

• Cardiovascular endurance

• Mental resilience

• Discipline and consistency

  
  

This approach builds a balanced, capable body and a strong mindset, which helps you push through plateaus and stay motivated.

Start with the Basics: Bodyweight Exercises

Before adding weights or machines, military training relies heavily on bodyweight exercises. These build a solid foundation and improve mobility. Some key exercises include:

• Push-ups: Build upper body strength and core stability.

• Squats: Strengthen legs and hips, essential for running and carrying loads.

• Planks: Develop core endurance and posture.

• Burpees: Combine cardio and strength for full-body conditioning.

  
  

Try circuits combining these moves with minimal rest. For example, 3 rounds of 15 push-ups, 20 squats, 30-second plank, and 10 burpees. This keeps your heart rate up and builds stamina.

Incorporate Running and Interval Training

Running is a staple in military fitness. It improves cardiovascular health and leg strength. But it’s not just about long, slow runs. Interval training is key:

• Sprint for 30 seconds

• Walk or jog for 1 minute

• Repeat for 15-20 minutes

  
  

This method boosts endurance and burns fat faster than steady-state cardio. An ex UK soldier would also recommend hill sprints or stair runs to add intensity and build explosive power.

Use Functional Equipment When Possible

While bodyweight exercises are great, adding simple equipment can enhance your training. Military style personal training often uses:

• Sandbags: Mimic carrying heavy loads.

• Kettlebells: Great for swings, presses, and dynamic movements.

• Pull-up bars: Build upper body and grip strength.

  
  

These tools train muscles to work together, improving coordination and strength for everyday tasks.

Focus on Mental Toughness and Discipline

Physical fitness is only part of military training. Mental toughness is what keeps soldiers going through fatigue and stress. You can build this by:

• Setting clear goals and tracking progress

• Pushing yourself slightly beyond comfort zones regularly

• Practicing consistency, even on tough days

• Using breathing techniques to stay calm under pressure

  
  

This mindset helps you stay committed and overcome challenges in your fitness journey.

Sample Weekly Military Style Training Plan

Here’s a simple plan inspired by military training principles:

Monday

• Warm-up: 5-minute jog

• Circuit (3 rounds): 20 push-ups, 25 squats, 30-second plank, 10 burpees

• Cool down: Stretching

  
  

Tuesday

• Interval running: 10 sprints of 30 seconds with 1-minute rest

• Bodyweight core exercises: leg raises, mountain climbers

  
  

Wednesday

• Rest or light activity like walking or yoga

  
  

Thursday

• Strength training with kettlebells or sandbags: swings, presses, carries

• Pull-ups or assisted pull-ups

  
  

Friday

• Hill sprints or stair runs

• Bodyweight circuit (similar to Monday)

  
  

Saturday

• Long steady run (30-45 minutes) at moderate pace

  
  

Sunday

• Rest and recovery

  
  

Adjust reps and rounds based on your fitness level. The key is consistency and gradual progression.

Nutrition and Recovery Matter

Military style training demands energy and recovery. Fuel your body with balanced meals rich in protein, healthy fats, and complex carbs. Hydrate well and prioritize sleep. Recovery days are essential to avoid injury and allow muscles to rebuild stronger.

Why Choose Military Style Personal Training?

An ex UK soldier brings firsthand experience of what works in tough conditions. Their training methods are tested and practical. You learn to train smarter, not just harder, focusing on movements that improve overall fitness and resilience.

This style suits anyone who wants a no-nonsense, effective workout that builds real strength and endurance. It’s especially good for those who get bored with traditional gym routines or want to challenge themselves mentally as well as physically.