I went through the Army (Fat Camp) back in April. I graduated fat camp in June as I had to lose a ton of weight, but I worked my ass off for it. It was the best decision of my life as I'm in AIT now and I graduate next week, and I got orders to go to Korea, so fat camp has helped me tremendously, and they also teach you discipline there and the army ways so you can have an upper hand in BCT I was so ahead of everyone that goes straight through
@Kq4hcuDan They do that then these companies will raise their price because they will have the perfect excess to do it. It would never pass, people will rather have health problems then paying more for food
We have to have this program. A solid 75% of American Kids are not fit to serve. Army JROTC is essential too. Parents are slacking nowadays so taxpayers gotta pony up. 🇺🇸
@@MEWJr90 this is a large nation in terms of area and population. We all want the same food so it is processed and preserved. But with discipline you can lose body fat with a simple diet of vegetables and lean protein like eggs. I was technically overweight most of my 23 year military career but low body fat due to sound nutrition. 🇺🇸
@@MEWJr90 let’s agree to disagree but I think parents are more responsible than the FDA, USDA, and large food companies. It would be interesting to see what the CEOs of these large companies eat at home however. 🇺🇸
@@Platoon_Guidethat’s a half sighted answer when a “healthy” life style is both costly and food companies have a history of lying about what’s in our food.
I'm a recruiter, this route has its benefits and downfalls, the benefit is that there are some applicants that actually work their ass off and are losing weight but they have ship dates sooner in order to lock certain jobs in, those people I don't have any issues sending them to this program. The downfall (and it's only a downfall if the applicant knows about this) but there are some out there that don't have the drive or work ethic to lose weight prior to walking into a recruiter office and they think this program is going to be free cake (no pun intended)
I was in this situation and MEPS wad about to reserve my MOS.. Im Soo happy for This program. I've tried to lose weight on my own, I would lose weight and it would all come right back, it was very depressing. But this is going to really help me..
Yes. I would like to see a video about the academic program. I have a nephew who went through that program and it made a HUGE difference in his life. He was a lost person, school had failed him. He needed help from his grandma, my sister, to fill out a job application for minimum wage, manual labor jobs. Now he’s a Stryker mechanic. Now, in the Army, he has a future and it looks great. That program really helped him. Thank you.
I was in the program for 7 weeks towards the beginning of the year. I have wanted to join the army for years but couldn't until this program came about. I lose almost 40lbs just to get in, and then I lost 33lbs and several inches off the waist at the program. I didn't really notice much muscle loss since they do plenty of strength training. Generally it was three workout sessions per day 4 days out of the week. There was usually a heavy, moderate and light session (although it seemed like the heavy/moderate were similar intensity, with the light being a mix of extra walking laps or stretching/foam rolling/band work). The other three days were two active recovery days and one "rest" day. Active recovery were light days for stretching/foam rolling/band work, as well as different classes on anything from nutrition, literally how to walk and run, etc, to army topics such as cover and concealment, weapon familiarization, etc. Corrective training was about as constant as it was in BCT. You get really familiar with the front leaning rest the first couple weeks you're there. As far as nutrition, you ate at a normal BCT DFAC. You were always highly encouraged to make healthy choices and to ensure you get enough calories for how demanding the physical portion is. Drills would always try to make useful recommendations of what to eat. There were usually a couple of dieticians available multiple times per week. The company I was at was incredibly professional and knowledgeable all around. Overall I highly recommend going to the course if you're struggling with making tape. My only critique is that being in a training environment, I could foresee it being an issue with some of the graduates having problems keeping the weight off once they reach their first duty station or return home if they are Guard/Reserves. Having access to civilian food where in some cases one meal could have all of your maintenance calories, combined with continued unhealthy relationships with food could still be an issue for some. The program can't break all bad habits with nutrition in the same way that BCT can't break all bad habits of discipline for some. So for those that do go through this program, I highly recommend keeping the same habits you formed at the program and maintain your discipline when it comes to making proper nutrition and fitness choices.
I joined as an 11b back in 2011 and I was overweight. I didn't come from an athletic background, but I could barely pass a fitness test at the time. I was 5'11" 251lbs naked at meps. I had a big neck lol. The rate at which I lost weight in OSUT didn't give my anatomy time to reform: my posture was funky and my back hurt. I was soaked every time we did anything physical. I overheated, couldnt think, needed more sleep than the average private. There was never skin on my feet because my feet were sweating all of the time. Completely miserable and i suffered. I finished OSUT at 205lbs. I joined the CG later in my late 30s; I made sure I was below 20% and running a 20min 5k prior. Walked through it. I think this program is good for young people who weren't exposed to health and fitness information. When I was in school to become an RN I applied much of what I was learning to myself. Don't go in fat, it sucks lol
Talked to my son tonight who is currently in reception at FLW, he was supposed to start BCT tomorrow but will be delayed a day or two due to the amount of SIT’s that are currently there. Your videos were a help as he was prepping to go, thanks!
Look, the kids of these generations are what we have. Fixing that is another question. The Army's job isn't about what should be, it's taking what's there and making something of it. This is what they have to work with so, imo, this course is absolutely necessary and been well overdue.
Guardsman here, RSP was really helpful with the academic stuff/memorization/marching, but we didn't meet enough for it to do much for our physical fitness
98% graduation rate this is good and will help the US military on the long run with new recruits be given the knowledge to succeed and be better prepped for the military life, wish i got this program.
I have never understood how being abusive to people is supposed to motivate them more than giving them good tools and support. Clearly this program is successful, and if it leads to having more fit recruits entering basic training, then that is all to the better. I remember when I joined in 1985, I had little stick arms and couldn't do 4 push-ups when I arrived. Eight weeks later, I went home on leave and people were amazed at my physical transformation (I put on about 20 pounds in basic - all muscle in my arms and shoulders). That kind of transformation is, itself, highly motivating. These young people are our future military, and I think they will do well if they keep the lessons they are learning in this program to heart.
This program seems to be a good solution to the social problems we face today. Ideally we would have a more fit and educated society, but we don’t. The Army helping young adults to become better soldiers is money well spent.
I think this is a great program, now this coming from a Veteran that was from the era where you did PT in OG107's and combat boots! I would believe that not only are these kids getting in a better shape with weight loss, but consider the cardio conditioning, as well as the beginning basic understanding of military discipline and training. I would have to believe that these kids are considerably further along on the transition from being a civilian to a solider! So money well spent!
I honestly think it’s a great idea. When I enlisted in the Corps back in 2000, I was a part of the Delayed Entry Program where we met every Saturday(or just show up at the recruiting station whenever) to do PT, watch recruiting videos, movies, pick recruiters’ brains, anything to prepare you for boot camp. It’s also available to those who are eager to join but don’t meet the physical/academic requirements(yet). I had awesome recruiters/Marine volunteers who will work with you as long as you have the motivation to do so. I think with proper mentoring and guidance, the Army will produce amazing and much more successful soldiers out of this program.
What a great idea. Australia is also having problems in recruiting across all services, whether it’s health and fitness or because of security concerns from the candidates. Results show in assets not being able to be deployed. 😢
I appreciate the tone and perspective to whatever it is that you share in your videos. So many "soldier" YouYubers are so negative and "when I was in, that would never fly; the Army today is soft and sucks!" You don't try to shine a turd for sure, but you're not trashing the Army all them time.
I think the concept is a good idea. I suspect that a lot who needed help on the education are not stupid just poorly educated so the mental part could certainly help. As for fitness, North America as a whole needs help. A few weeks of focused training can make a massive and positive difference.
Absolutely a positive program. I think there are more people that wanna join that can’t physically qualify be those that would qualify that don’t wanna join.
i went thru it, in october 14 of 2023 till just past chrismast block leave. I was first platoon under senior drill SGT Thomas i lost almost 6 inches from my waist while there and gained a lot of muscle. they gave us knowledge and they really pushed the hell out of some people. i wouldnt be in the army today if i hadnt gone thru that program since i would not have been able to sign up at all with a 35% body fat im now at 22% after BCT and AIT
I went through the ARMS program aka fat camp last year from mid June to late July. I went in there at 235 lbs! I was at 4% over body fat Came out of there at 211-210 took me a month and a week. Went to BCT in August graduated in October. It was an awesome program, we did a lot of walking, kettlebell workouts and stretching. My piece of advise if you're an ARMS candidate is don't get discourage while you're in there, you get taped every week people that you made friends with may leave earlier or later than you, dont let that discourage you you will lose weight just trust the process and eat clean!!!! Edit: Bautista soldier she was with me at BCT hope she’s doing well.
Haven’t watched fully yet but I think this makes so much sense and is smart from a recruiting perspective. There are many smart willing young men and women who would be great but don’t know how to workout or exercise. I didn’t before I was shown. Even outside of that, if someone is willing to show up to workout and study… why not work with them and get them in your pipeline?
I did my BCT at Fort Jackson and saw a lot of quality people come out of the program. I also saw some shit bags, but it’s over all a net positive for the army.
I just graduated OSUT and airborne school. I’ve talked to a lot of trainees that went through this program. It definitely works on paper but, from what they have told me, they try to force people into infantry. There was a huge group of people that got told infantry was their only option and didn’t want to be there at all. I support the idea of this program as long as it’s not being used to feed the infantry. Our MOS needs people that want to be there, maybe more than any other job in the army.
honestly you can show up to basic off the couch, just don’t quit, don’t be a dirt bag, and you’ll pass. I suffered a broken leg and after i healed and barely started walking and a month later i got sent to basic lmao. Passed with flying colors, just don’t hop off the train once it starts moving. Only way out is through.
Not only as an Army Recruiter but as a Noncommissioned Officer in the Army, I DO NOT AGREE with these future soldiers getting bonuses if they go through this program. Enlistment Bonuses is a privilege not a right. You should flat out earn it, not getting it after taking a course you needed to enlist in the Army. Sorry not sorry.
Well, in all honesty, that's a ridiculous take. The bonus isn't a reward for the course it's an incentive for an MOS. If you qualify for the MOS and sign on then you're entitled the bonus. Also, and again disputing your faulty logic, these recruits already did more to "earn" that bonus than did the kid straight off the street that's only accomplishment in the Army so far is being able to sign his name. These kids are working to make something of their lives and serve their country. Good for them.
The army is smart for doing that. They are providing a realistic approach towards success in recruiting. Society have changed and kids are not are fit as past times. Most these kids will go straight to BootCamp and be prepared for that also. They ( Army) made a good move ! Also times change and industries have to change along with it .
I will actually check your math on the body fat. A 200lb person at 28% bfp carries 56lbs of fat. 1.7% of that is .95lbs, which is well within the healthy recommended weight loss of 1-2lbs per week. To cap out at a 3lb body weight loss per week while keeping that 1.7% body fat loss (which is what's important here, as they stated it as a percentage of body fat and not of total body weight), a 200lb person would have to start at 88% bfp, which would be almost impossible for any person who can still walk by themselves.
Note on the weight loss math: Let's assume losing 2 lbs of fat per week, no muscle gain - starting at 200 lbs 30% body fat: start: 200 # 30% BF = 60 # fat ; 140 # muscle (and everything else) wk 1 198, 29.3% wk 2 196, 28.6% about 0.7% BF per week If the person is also gaining muscle, the BF% goes down faster (assume +1# muscle each week): wk 0: 200, 30.0% wk 1: 199, 29.1% wk2: 198, 28.3% 0.9 to 0.8% per week. A bit better. Note - I expect that younger people would do better and be able to lose weight faster, especially if they are motivated (as people in a program like this would be).
I went through Basic Training at Fort Knox in 1981. We accomplished the very same things as far as guys losing weight and becomming conditioned. They broke a lot of hearts doing it, the Drill Sgt would scrape food off the plates of "Fat Boys" and berate them for eating fat foods and starches while being a "Fat Boy". We did PT constantly and were always hungry.
It appears to be working , so my 🎩 off to those young people stepping up … the military can really lay a good foundation for the rest of their life . I went into the Army in 1982 , weighed in MEPS at 200 , I had to drop to 186 by my ship date , and the ratio of weeks to pounds I had to weigh in at exactly 186, not 185 not 187 . 11C2P when I got out 4 years later
I wish this was around in 2007. I was separated early in infantry osut for not passing my PT tests. And now that I think about it i could have used the academic side to get a job like in Intelligence.
I go there in January, worked my ass off to meet the required bodyfat, I lost 25 pounds in 5 weeks, I was able to sign my contract and receive a option 19
Between Genesis nixing all the people who 5 years ago could’ve got in by “tactically withholding” things at MEPS, and the general sentiment towards the military in 2024, I think giving as many resources and opportunities for motivated/excited/willful recruits can only be good for the Army.
Project 100thousand "Macnamara's Morons" didn't end well, and this won't either. As a current Drill Sergeant at Sand Hill, let me tell you, i am extremely concerned with the negative effects these soldiers will have on the army as a whole. They may not show them in this vedeo but they tend to be very very dumb and every cycle we get at least 3 that are STILL obese even after the program but somehow still were shipped to us anyway.
The graduation rate from the Future Soldier Prep Course is useful, but we also need the graduation rate from basic training and (in future years) the reenlistment rate compared to other soldiers.
I went through fat camp in the navy about a year ago, I will say I passed all the taping leading up to bootcamp and failed the one at bootcamp which didn’t make sense, I also had a SO contract which was dropped due to certain medical stuff, but overall the project is good for most people who have done no running or sports prior to the military. A year later I’m a corpsman with the marines, working towards that SO contract after I get my eyes fixed. The program works all the old heads that talk crap about it need to be more open to newer ideas, a lot of those guys I went with are already in the fleet and have continued to lose weight.
If someone is motivated to join the Army and this program will help them achieve success, it is worth every penny. The military needs motivated recruits in order to achieve mission readiness.
Thank you for the video. As a new subscriber, I love your channel, so far. I think this Army program should be integrated into the Middle School's and High School's PE program for all students. Please remember: any soldier who goes through the program and eventually up gives up their life or limb in the service to and protection of our United States has indeed returned the Army's investment. Keep up the good work.
In general, I would be curious to see how the Prep Course Soldiers fared against peers who did not participate at the end of the first enlistment. I suspect that is when we as an Army will know the value of the program. Given what little I know of the program (other than this video) and my own hard-headedness as an NCO, I am guardedly optimistic.
My son just finished the academic program last week…after 3 weeks barely passed with a 33…said there weren’t very many ppl who passed. About 100/400. Said a lot of the teachers were not there/on vacation 🤷🏻♀️
Army veteran from about 150 years ago here. At first blush, this seems like a great idea. I think that Big Army does need to track its graduates long-term and see if they maintain their performance. For example, are they currently in mess halls that offer only healthy choices, and when they get into environments that offer unlimited ice cream and a fast food line, will the weight loss reverse itself? If the changes last, then the program is a success. If its grads get fat again, then maybe it needs a relook. As far as the academics go, I guess this extra time with the books will get them at least through entry-level enlisted service. Again, long-term: when they start hitting NCO ranks, will they be equal to their non-grad peers in more advanced Army training (the ones that stay past a first enlistment)?
Question if the army is putting this much effect into new recruits. What about our current soldiers who are having a hard time losing weight. As part of the over weight program. It was seriously lacking
Yeah, we have the ABCP, but it’s not a full on course like this, it more of a monitored “you better lose that weight” time-period. You might be on to something.
@@GrittySoldier it is you better loss that weight by this time or out you go! I know a few soldiers and including myself was on the over weight program. As a fully trained soldier , I feel cheated by this !!!!
I think if you’re motivated and willing to do the work then you should have an opportunity to prove yourself. I did horrible on the asvab but have two masters degrees. A program like this could’ve helped improve my scores and I think the army is doing the right thing.
I think the other issue is a lot of newer (and some old) specialties now are well, not combat related. From cyber, to intel, ISR, medical, nursing, etc. In nature they just aren’t “physical” professions. So, it’s hard to attract highly educated people into these slots, who are really into physical fitness. I’m a military advanced practice nurse. I’m shocked at the people that are able to pass their PT test. But hey, a pass is a pass and we’re glad they want to serve
A recent survey showed that British youngsters would not consider joining up unless their accommodation has good wifi and en suite bathrooms for their one-person rooms. Where does it stop?
Philosophically and historically, this is a bandage on the hemorrhage that is our citizenship quality. We do not have the moral fortitude to ensure the defense of that free state. But, one could argue the free society is overwhelmingly lost, as most are slave to "food", technology, or porn. I'm just glad someone is doing something.
Prior service here who joined the Army. All the recruits who came from Fort Johson knew the cadences. I wasn't impressed with their PT tests ( I was 11B then got 18x). I'm in my mid 30s and i couldn'rt believe i was more fit than these young fellas. IN THE INFANTRY BOOTCAMP... The Army is definitely soft.
So being at Fort Jackson, where this is taking place, I can say that the program has good intentions and obviously gets some new recruits. I’m not real good at math but according to these numbers of the number that signed up to participate, there is 71% pass from this program and of that (if they are saying the numbers for these specific recruits) a 67% grad from basic (from the original amount). Or are they using the 95% grad rate from basic overall which includes those that enlist without the program and those that do. Working at a medical facility, I can tell you we get quite overwhelmed with mental and physical problems from this program, so does this person get paid because they hurt during the program and can’t complete it? Those bonuses break down to $1,854.06 per person that graduates if that’s a thing.
I’m an instructor for the one at Fort Moore. It’s work for the students that want to improve but most are a waste of oxygen. If they allowed us the ability to kick the ones out that aren’t cutting the mustard that number would be in the 1000s. The stories I have 😂
5:40. And that’s the million dollar question. Are they going to adopt the new lifestyle or are they going to struggle with the tape for the rest of their careers?
Excuse me…did they say, “physical and ACADEMIC”? I’m sorry if this bruises anyone’s feelings but the only way to NOT make the academic standard for the Army is to not have ever gone to high school at all. Is that where we’re at on the recruiting situation?
My Son was on a test program, went to basic Summer break his junior year, graduated, then finished his Senior year of highschool, then went off to AIT. It's a different world for sure.
I'm 52 yrs old, served 21.5 yrs and joined when I was 19 yrs old. I wish the Army taught about nutrition. How carbs and proteins effect my weight and Physical Training. In my day in 2nd Battt, 75th/RGR REGT you PT'ed the weight off. Won't work for most Regular Army Soldiers. Teach soldiers about how the food they eat will help or hurt their PT Test and Physical Fitness. My two cents.
Currently need to lose 2% body fat to enlist for the ARMS course I think it is called or something. I just clicked on the video so idk if it was said but once I do that I can ship off in march. Idk why it has to be in march I wish it was maybe in January but sadly it is not.
What you eat is everything. Stop eating treat food, load up on protein. Check out "The Simple Diet" from your library and follow it for 8 weeks. There is your 2%.
Math is wrong. Operative word is of: "of their fat". So a 200 lbs person w 40% body fat = 80 lbs of fat. The 1.7% is of the body fat. 80 x 1.7% = 1.36 lbs. Still a lot.
As a 51 year old in relatively good shape, are there any 51 year olds in the military who are in as good of shape as fit 18-22 year olds? I always tell myself that I want to be in good shape, not for a 51 year old, but for someone at any age. I will keep this mindset, but not sure if I am kidding myself. In the military, do you see 51 year olds that are as fit as 18-22 year olds and/or doing some of the same physical activity as younger soldiers?
How are they doing in 2-3 years? Are they successful soldiers? Can the kids who lost weight keep it off once in the sub-optimal DFACs that the Army has.
I want to join the army but im overweight and i want to join the program to reach my goals but I'm having issues with my body. What the name of the program
Its not new. In 2000 we had F.T.U. (fitness training unit) AKA Fat Tired and Useless. This just seems like a better version of that. The US has a fatass problem. Any new recruit willing to go threw this AND basic has my respect. It shows me you really want it.
The academic track bothers me way more than the fitness track. It’s not like an asvab studying program is making recruits smarter, it’s training them to pass the test. For people with language barriers and other extreme cases I get it, but I’ve personally dealt with several privates that came through that program and they’re so dumb that they can’t be tasked to do literally anything without it being positively counterproductive.
The idea is good but they are executing terribly!!! As a prior DS I can say I received a dude that was 5’9 330lbs. We also had someone with bi-lateral femoral fractures and was influenced to deny profile to ship to basic. The Drills there are also under a ridiculous microscope. They’re pencil whipping on potential. However, that 330lbs Soldier was highly motivated and became a per project for all our drills! He was HIGHLY MOTIVATED by the end! The bi-lateral femoral fracture dude had to go to a holdover company to recover more, but when he came back we got him HIGHLY MOTIVATED!!!! He ended up being a Soldier any NCO would LOVE! Some of these big backs just need some NCO love 😊 . . . Real NCOs. Not Sergeants scared to push Soldiers or trying to just be friends with their Soldiers.
Blame big corps, food is too calorie dense and there's nothing to do anymore. Even people I've seen in gyms are unhealthy or on steroids. Also the max bmi is 34 i believe so its not that bad tbh
Proof is in the pudding, as to results. End of the day, they just need to get back to basics and stop serving fast food and crap in the chow line. Just get rid of it all together. Back before contract mess halls, we ate real home cooked chow hall food. Then were run through the chow hall to shovel it in and taste it later. When your burning over 3-5000 calories a day, it pays to know how to put it all on a couple of pieces of bread.
I think it's a great idea and inclusive at that (what a woke term, ouch!). People come from different walks of life and being able to level up to required standards shows that US army cares.
I mean that’s good that people who just can’t or won’t dedicate the time to lose weight before basic and can solely focus on that and get paid doing it sounds good but I’m sure it has its drawbacks. They also need to put current soldiers in the program 😂
Test prep Maximize test scores (I needed that) Online Numbers (Target) Stuff like the 12 mile ruck march (good to know) (Foreign military in the 1990s) Building better people (after the typical High School education) Go for it Starship Troopers!
I went through the Army (Fat Camp) back in April. I graduated fat camp in June as I had to lose a ton of weight, but I worked my ass off for it. It was the best decision of my life as I'm in AIT now and I graduate next week, and I got orders to go to Korea, so fat camp has helped me tremendously, and they also teach you discipline there and the army ways so you can have an upper hand in BCT I was so ahead of everyone that goes straight through
That’s awesome to hear, and thanks for sharing your experience here, I’m sure it will be helpful to those that see it
@@GrittySoldier you are very welcome
Hey buddy! What MOS did you choose that's got you PCSing to NK?
@@MrWorstNews Doubt he's going to North Korea.
@@MrWorstNews they let you choose now a days. Unless you have a combat mos ofc
I support this program. Some recruits want to lose weight but have no idea how to follow a proper program in order to get fit.
Yeah, when I was at Moore a guy was telling me how he wanted to join but wad disappointed because of his weight. This program is good.
Nor the means to grocery shop by themselves
They need to get rid of ultra processed foods diet and pass laws to ban seed oils, sugars and cricket paste😂
@Kq4hcuDan They do that then these companies will raise their price because they will have the perfect excess to do it. It would never pass, people will rather have health problems then paying more for food
@@Nolangames-ep8up when I cut out seed oils, went full liver king and I drop a f**load of weight
We have to have this program. A solid 75% of American Kids are not fit to serve. Army JROTC is essential too. Parents are slacking nowadays so taxpayers gotta pony up. 🇺🇸
@@MEWJr90 this is a large nation in terms of area and population. We all want the same food so it is processed and preserved. But with discipline you can lose body fat with a simple diet of vegetables and lean protein like eggs. I was technically overweight most of my 23 year military career but low body fat due to sound nutrition. 🇺🇸
@@MEWJr90 let’s agree to disagree but I think parents are more responsible than the FDA, USDA, and large food companies. It would be interesting to see what the CEOs of these large companies eat at home however. 🇺🇸
@@Platoon_Guidethat’s a half sighted answer when a “healthy” life style is both costly and food companies have a history of lying about what’s in our food.
@@tacobread3 you just convinced me to go off grid and go organic. Thanks CSM Walz!
@@Platoon_Guidethey hold 100% of the blame.
I'm a recruiter, this route has its benefits and downfalls, the benefit is that there are some applicants that actually work their ass off and are losing weight but they have ship dates sooner in order to lock certain jobs in, those people I don't have any issues sending them to this program. The downfall (and it's only a downfall if the applicant knows about this) but there are some out there that don't have the drive or work ethic to lose weight prior to walking into a recruiter office and they think this program is going to be free cake (no pun intended)
I was in this situation and MEPS wad about to reserve my MOS.. Im Soo happy for This program. I've tried to lose weight on my own, I would lose weight and it would all come right back, it was very depressing. But this is going to really help me..
Yes. I would like to see a video about the academic program. I have a nephew who went through that program and it made a HUGE difference in his life. He was a lost person, school had failed him. He needed help from his grandma, my sister, to fill out a job application for minimum wage, manual labor jobs. Now he’s a Stryker mechanic. Now, in the Army, he has a future and it looks great. That program really helped him. Thank you.
I was in the program for 7 weeks towards the beginning of the year. I have wanted to join the army for years but couldn't until this program came about. I lose almost 40lbs just to get in, and then I lost 33lbs and several inches off the waist at the program. I didn't really notice much muscle loss since they do plenty of strength training. Generally it was three workout sessions per day 4 days out of the week. There was usually a heavy, moderate and light session (although it seemed like the heavy/moderate were similar intensity, with the light being a mix of extra walking laps or stretching/foam rolling/band work). The other three days were two active recovery days and one "rest" day. Active recovery were light days for stretching/foam rolling/band work, as well as different classes on anything from nutrition, literally how to walk and run, etc, to army topics such as cover and concealment, weapon familiarization, etc. Corrective training was about as constant as it was in BCT. You get really familiar with the front leaning rest the first couple weeks you're there. As far as nutrition, you ate at a normal BCT DFAC. You were always highly encouraged to make healthy choices and to ensure you get enough calories for how demanding the physical portion is. Drills would always try to make useful recommendations of what to eat. There were usually a couple of dieticians available multiple times per week. The company I was at was incredibly professional and knowledgeable all around. Overall I highly recommend going to the course if you're struggling with making tape.
My only critique is that being in a training environment, I could foresee it being an issue with some of the graduates having problems keeping the weight off once they reach their first duty station or return home if they are Guard/Reserves. Having access to civilian food where in some cases one meal could have all of your maintenance calories, combined with continued unhealthy relationships with food could still be an issue for some. The program can't break all bad habits with nutrition in the same way that BCT can't break all bad habits of discipline for some. So for those that do go through this program, I highly recommend keeping the same habits you formed at the program and maintain your discipline when it comes to making proper nutrition and fitness choices.
Or...
Have enough duscipline to not be a fat-body.
Excellent comments!
I joined as an 11b back in 2011 and I was overweight. I didn't come from an athletic background, but I could barely pass a fitness test at the time. I was 5'11" 251lbs naked at meps. I had a big neck lol. The rate at which I lost weight in OSUT didn't give my anatomy time to reform: my posture was funky and my back hurt. I was soaked every time we did anything physical. I overheated, couldnt think, needed more sleep than the average private. There was never skin on my feet because my feet were sweating all of the time. Completely miserable and i suffered. I finished OSUT at 205lbs. I joined the CG later in my late 30s; I made sure I was below 20% and running a 20min 5k prior. Walked through it. I think this program is good for young people who weren't exposed to health and fitness information. When I was in school to become an RN I applied much of what I was learning to myself. Don't go in fat, it sucks lol
Talked to my son tonight who is currently in reception at FLW, he was supposed to start BCT tomorrow but will be delayed a day or two due to the amount of SIT’s that are currently there. Your videos were a help as he was prepping to go, thanks!
@@michaelbarwinski2522 that’s great to hear!! He’ll be good, part of the army is getting used to waiting. 🤣
@@GrittySoldier😂
Look, the kids of these generations are what we have. Fixing that is another question. The Army's job isn't about what should be, it's taking what's there and making something of it. This is what they have to work with so, imo, this course is absolutely necessary and been well overdue.
Army National Guard does RSP. That is after they have joined until they complete AIT. It is very beneficial. Finally, AD is doing something!
i only went to RSP twice before i went to OSUT, so that could be a factor to consider
Guardsman here, RSP was really helpful with the academic stuff/memorization/marching, but we didn't meet enough for it to do much for our physical fitness
That mental toughness/self discipline is what seems to be lacking from a lot of Soldiers and people in general this day and age.
98% graduation rate this is good and will help the US military on the long run with new recruits be given the knowledge to succeed and be better prepped for the military life, wish i got this program.
I have never understood how being abusive to people is supposed to motivate them more than giving them good tools and support.
Clearly this program is successful, and if it leads to having more fit recruits entering basic training, then that is all to the better.
I remember when I joined in 1985, I had little stick arms and couldn't do 4 push-ups when I arrived. Eight weeks later, I went home on leave and people were amazed at my physical transformation (I put on about 20 pounds in basic - all muscle in my arms and shoulders). That kind of transformation is, itself, highly motivating. These young people are our future military, and I think they will do well if they keep the lessons they are learning in this program to heart.
This program seems to be a good solution to the social problems we face today. Ideally we would have a more fit and educated society, but we don’t. The Army helping young adults to become better soldiers is money well spent.
Agreed 👍
Based on what i see among young people today,lack of sports ,to many video games,i think this is a good idea
appreciate the video. i leave for fat camp November 4th as a 35L. your channel has taught me so much, thanks always 🤙🏽
I think this is a great program, now this coming from a Veteran that was from the era where you did PT in OG107's and combat boots! I would believe that not only are these kids getting in a better shape with weight loss, but consider the cardio conditioning, as well as the beginning basic understanding of military discipline and training. I would have to believe that these kids are considerably further along on the transition from being a civilian to a solider! So money well spent!
I honestly think it’s a great idea. When I enlisted in the Corps back in 2000, I was a part of the Delayed Entry Program where we met every Saturday(or just show up at the recruiting station whenever) to do PT, watch recruiting videos, movies, pick recruiters’ brains, anything to prepare you for boot camp. It’s also available to those who are eager to join but don’t meet the physical/academic requirements(yet). I had awesome recruiters/Marine volunteers who will work with you as long as you have the motivation to do so. I think with proper mentoring and guidance, the Army will produce amazing and much more successful soldiers out of this program.
What a great idea. Australia is also having problems in recruiting across all services, whether it’s health and fitness or because of security concerns from the candidates. Results show in assets not being able to be deployed. 😢
I appreciate the tone and perspective to whatever it is that you share in your videos. So many "soldier" YouYubers are so negative and "when I was in, that would never fly; the Army today is soft and sucks!" You don't try to shine a turd for sure, but you're not trashing the Army all them time.
I think the concept is a good idea. I suspect that a lot who needed help on the education are not stupid just poorly educated so the mental part could certainly help.
As for fitness, North America as a whole needs help. A few weeks of focused training can make a massive and positive difference.
Absolutely a positive program. I think there are more people that wanna join that can’t physically qualify be those that would qualify that don’t wanna join.
i went thru it, in october 14 of 2023 till just past chrismast block leave. I was first platoon under senior drill SGT Thomas i lost almost 6 inches from my waist while there and gained a lot of muscle. they gave us knowledge and they really pushed the hell out of some people. i wouldnt be in the army today if i hadnt gone thru that program since i would not have been able to sign up at all with a 35% body fat im now at 22% after BCT and AIT
I went through the ARMS program aka fat camp last year from mid June to late July. I went in there at 235 lbs! I was at 4% over body fat Came out of there at 211-210 took me a month and a week. Went to BCT in August graduated in October. It was an awesome program, we did a lot of walking, kettlebell workouts and stretching. My piece of advise if you're an ARMS candidate is don't get discourage while you're in there, you get taped every week people that you made friends with may leave earlier or later than you, dont let that discourage you you will lose weight just trust the process and eat clean!!!!
Edit: Bautista soldier she was with me at BCT hope she’s doing well.
Haven’t watched fully yet but I think this makes so much sense and is smart from a recruiting perspective. There are many smart willing young men and women who would be great but don’t know how to workout or exercise. I didn’t before I was shown. Even outside of that, if someone is willing to show up to workout and study… why not work with them and get them in your pipeline?
This program should be implemented at every high school and should be a requirement for graduation.
This!
I called for this a long time ago, BTW. Glad they stepped up and made it happen.
US Army is not a joke to join u hv to be way more professional in each n everything. I love the US Marines 🇺🇲
I did my BCT at Fort Jackson and saw a lot of quality people come out of the program. I also saw some shit bags, but it’s over all a net positive for the army.
i ship tmr and fly tuesday, Your super helpful and in my path as a 11x option 40, super motvational thank you
I just graduated OSUT and airborne school. I’ve talked to a lot of trainees that went through this program. It definitely works on paper but, from what they have told me, they try to force people into infantry. There was a huge group of people that got told infantry was their only option and didn’t want to be there at all. I support the idea of this program as long as it’s not being used to feed the infantry. Our MOS needs people that want to be there, maybe more than any other job in the army.
honestly you can show up to basic off the couch, just don’t quit, don’t be a dirt bag, and you’ll pass. I suffered a broken leg and after i healed and barely started walking and a month later i got sent to basic lmao. Passed with flying colors, just don’t hop off the train once it starts moving. Only way out is through.
Would definitely help numbers.
Not only as an Army Recruiter but as a Noncommissioned Officer in the Army, I DO NOT AGREE with these future soldiers getting bonuses if they go through this program. Enlistment Bonuses is a privilege not a right. You should flat out earn it, not getting it after taking a course you needed to enlist in the Army. Sorry not sorry.
Well, in all honesty, that's a ridiculous take. The bonus isn't a reward for the course it's an incentive for an MOS. If you qualify for the MOS and sign on then you're entitled the bonus. Also, and again disputing your faulty logic, these recruits already did more to "earn" that bonus than did the kid straight off the street that's only accomplishment in the Army so far is being able to sign his name.
These kids are working to make something of their lives and serve their country. Good for them.
We need to go back to the basics. We won wars on the foundation of push ups, sit ups, , pull ups, & running.
The army is smart for doing that. They are providing a realistic approach towards success in recruiting. Society have changed and kids are not are fit as past times. Most these kids will go straight to BootCamp and be prepared for that also. They ( Army) made a good move ! Also times change and industries have to change along with it .
I will actually check your math on the body fat.
A 200lb person at 28% bfp carries 56lbs of fat. 1.7% of that is .95lbs, which is well within the healthy recommended weight loss of 1-2lbs per week.
To cap out at a 3lb body weight loss per week while keeping that 1.7% body fat loss (which is what's important here, as they stated it as a percentage of body fat and not of total body weight), a 200lb person would have to start at 88% bfp, which would be almost impossible for any person who can still walk by themselves.
Note on the weight loss math:
Let's assume losing 2 lbs of fat per week, no muscle gain - starting at 200 lbs 30% body fat:
start: 200 # 30% BF = 60 # fat ; 140 # muscle (and everything else)
wk 1 198, 29.3%
wk 2 196, 28.6%
about 0.7% BF per week
If the person is also gaining muscle, the BF% goes down faster (assume +1# muscle each week):
wk 0: 200, 30.0%
wk 1: 199, 29.1%
wk2: 198, 28.3%
0.9 to 0.8% per week. A bit better.
Note - I expect that younger people would do better and be able to lose weight faster, especially if they are motivated (as people in a program like this would be).
I went through Basic Training at Fort Knox in 1981. We accomplished the very same things as far as guys losing weight and becomming conditioned.
They broke a lot of hearts doing it, the Drill Sgt would scrape food off the plates of "Fat Boys" and berate them for eating fat foods and starches while being a "Fat Boy".
We did PT constantly and were always hungry.
It appears to be working , so my 🎩 off to those young people stepping up … the military can really lay a good foundation for the rest of their life . I went into the Army in 1982 , weighed in MEPS at 200 , I had to drop to 186 by my ship date , and the ratio of weeks to pounds I had to weigh in at exactly 186, not 185 not 187 . 11C2P when I got out 4 years later
More shirts. Outstanding!! Bought 6
I wish this was around in 2007. I was separated early in infantry osut for not passing my PT tests. And now that I think about it i could have used the academic side to get a job like in Intelligence.
I go there in January, worked my ass off to meet the required bodyfat, I lost 25 pounds in 5 weeks, I was able to sign my contract and receive a option 19
Between Genesis nixing all the people who 5 years ago could’ve got in by “tactically withholding” things at MEPS, and the general sentiment towards the military in 2024, I think giving as many resources and opportunities for motivated/excited/willful recruits can only be good for the Army.
CAN you make videos on your diet daily and basic exercise for abs how to be in good shape .
Project 100thousand "Macnamara's Morons" didn't end well, and this won't either. As a current Drill Sergeant at Sand Hill, let me tell you, i am extremely concerned with the negative effects these soldiers will have on the army as a whole. They may not show them in this vedeo but they tend to be very very dumb and every cycle we get at least 3 that are STILL obese even after the program but somehow still were shipped to us anyway.
I don’t like hearing that standards are being bent, especially in new recruits… it starts EVERYTHING off on the wrong foot.
I made it through this program, it was hard than actual BCT am very educational as far as nutrition and sleep health
The graduation rate from the Future Soldier Prep Course is useful, but we also need the graduation rate from basic training and (in future years) the reenlistment rate compared to other soldiers.
I went through fat camp in the navy about a year ago, I will say I passed all the taping leading up to bootcamp and failed the one at bootcamp which didn’t make sense, I also had a SO contract which was dropped due to certain medical stuff, but overall the project is good for most people who have done no running or sports prior to the military. A year later I’m a corpsman with the marines, working towards that SO contract after I get my eyes fixed. The program works all the old heads that talk crap about it need to be more open to newer ideas, a lot of those guys I went with are already in the fleet and have continued to lose weight.
If someone is motivated to join the Army and this program will help them achieve success, it is worth every penny. The military needs motivated recruits in order to achieve mission readiness.
Thank you for the video.
As a new subscriber, I love your channel, so far. I think this Army program should be integrated into the Middle School's and High School's PE program for all students. Please remember: any soldier who goes through the program and eventually up gives up their life or limb in the service to and protection of our United States has indeed returned the Army's investment.
Keep up the good work.
In general, I would be curious to see how the Prep Course Soldiers fared against peers who did not participate at the end of the first enlistment. I suspect that is when we as an Army will know the value of the program. Given what little I know of the program (other than this video) and my own hard-headedness as an NCO, I am guardedly optimistic.
My son just finished the academic program last week…after 3 weeks barely passed with a 33…said there weren’t very many ppl who passed. About 100/400. Said a lot of the teachers were not there/on vacation 🤷🏻♀️
Hell yeah. Good program. Basic Training isn’t the place to learn fitness or lose weight.
Army veteran from about 150 years ago here. At first blush, this seems like a great idea. I think that Big Army does need to track its graduates long-term and see if they maintain their performance. For example, are they currently in mess halls that offer only healthy choices, and when they get into environments that offer unlimited ice cream and a fast food line, will the weight loss reverse itself? If the changes last, then the program is a success. If its grads get fat again, then maybe it needs a relook. As far as the academics go, I guess this extra time with the books will get them at least through entry-level enlisted service. Again, long-term: when they start hitting NCO ranks, will they be equal to their non-grad peers in more advanced Army training (the ones that stay past a first enlistment)?
Anyone willing to spend extra weeks training full time just so you can get to BCT shows they are dedicated. Hats off to them.
Question if the army is putting this much effect into new recruits. What about our current soldiers who are having a hard time losing weight. As part of the over weight program. It was seriously lacking
Yeah, we have the ABCP, but it’s not a full on course like this, it more of a monitored “you better lose that weight” time-period. You might be on to something.
They need to do PT and eat green.
@@GrittySoldier it is you better loss that weight by this time or out you go! I know a few soldiers and including myself was on the over weight program. As a fully trained soldier , I feel cheated by this !!!!
@@Xinthisis That’s not always to answer to the over weight problem, but it is a good start
I think if you’re motivated and willing to do the work then you should have an opportunity to prove yourself. I did horrible on the asvab but have two masters degrees. A program like this could’ve helped improve my scores and I think the army is doing the right thing.
I think the other issue is a lot of newer (and some old) specialties now are well, not combat related. From cyber, to intel, ISR, medical, nursing, etc. In nature they just aren’t “physical” professions. So, it’s hard to attract highly educated people into these slots, who are really into physical fitness.
I’m a military advanced practice nurse. I’m shocked at the people that are able to pass their PT test. But hey, a pass is a pass and we’re glad they want to serve
A recent survey showed that British youngsters would not consider joining up unless their accommodation has good wifi and en suite bathrooms for their one-person rooms. Where does it stop?
Philosophically and historically, this is a bandage on the hemorrhage that is our citizenship quality. We do not have the moral fortitude to ensure the defense of that free state.
But, one could argue the free society is overwhelmingly lost, as most are slave to "food", technology, or porn.
I'm just glad someone is doing something.
The body needs time to become durable and injury-resistant before guys get thrown into red phase. Especially with how physically unfit everyone is.
Prior service here who joined the Army. All the recruits who came from Fort Johson knew the cadences. I wasn't impressed with their PT tests ( I was 11B then got 18x). I'm in my mid 30s and i couldn'rt believe i was more fit than these young fellas. IN THE INFANTRY BOOTCAMP... The Army is definitely soft.
So being at Fort Jackson, where this is taking place, I can say that the program has good intentions and obviously gets some new recruits. I’m not real good at math but according to these numbers of the number that signed up to participate, there is 71% pass from this program and of that (if they are saying the numbers for these specific recruits) a 67% grad from basic (from the original amount). Or are they using the 95% grad rate from basic overall which includes those that enlist without the program and those that do.
Working at a medical facility, I can tell you we get quite overwhelmed with mental and physical problems from this program, so does this person get paid because they hurt during the program and can’t complete it?
Those bonuses break down to $1,854.06 per person that graduates if that’s a thing.
I’m an instructor for the one at Fort Moore. It’s work for the students that want to improve but most are a waste of oxygen. If they allowed us the ability to kick the ones out that aren’t cutting the mustard that number would be in the 1000s. The stories I have 😂
Infantry retired Ft.Polk Trained , We have to do what we have to do and if this keeps a fighting force, then so be it. Hooah Hooah.
Based on those numbers, it is a 72% pass rate.
Yeah I’m not sure about the 95% they put out….
5:40. And that’s the million dollar question. Are they going to adopt the new lifestyle or are they going to struggle with the tape for the rest of their careers?
Are they paid as active duty while going through this program?
Excuse me…did they say, “physical and ACADEMIC”? I’m sorry if this bruises anyone’s feelings but the only way to NOT make the academic standard for the Army is to not have ever gone to high school at all. Is that where we’re at on the recruiting situation?
My Son was on a test program, went to basic Summer break his junior year, graduated, then finished his Senior year of highschool, then went off to AIT. It's a different world for sure.
Wow that’s like a whole different way to become a soldier
I’m glad he was able to do it though. 👍
Split op.
I think it’s awesome. NCOs are supposed to build people up.
The 95 % graduation rate may be those that graduated fat camp and raising there asvab higher have gratuated regular basic training at 95 %?
I'm 52 yrs old, served 21.5 yrs and joined when I was 19 yrs old. I wish the Army taught about nutrition. How carbs and proteins effect my weight and Physical Training. In my day in 2nd Battt, 75th/RGR REGT you PT'ed the weight off. Won't work for most Regular Army Soldiers. Teach soldiers about how the food they eat will help or hurt their PT Test and Physical Fitness. My two cents.
Currently need to lose 2% body fat to enlist for the ARMS course I think it is called or something. I just clicked on the video so idk if it was said but once I do that I can ship off in march. Idk why it has to be in march I wish it was maybe in January but sadly it is not.
What you eat is everything. Stop eating treat food, load up on protein. Check out "The Simple Diet" from your library and follow it for 8 weeks. There is your 2%.
Math is wrong. Operative word is of: "of their fat". So a 200 lbs person w 40% body fat = 80 lbs of fat. The 1.7% is of the body fat. 80 x 1.7% = 1.36 lbs. Still a lot.
Ahhh ok got it, thanks for clarifying that I had a feeling I was matching wrong on that.
@@GrittySoldier Big fan of all you do. My son just made E5 in Germany. I have had him following your advice.
@@johnnyjohnston6919 thats awesome! 🫡
As a 51 year old in relatively good shape, are there any 51 year olds in the military who are in as good of shape as fit 18-22 year olds? I always tell myself that I want to be in good shape, not for a 51 year old, but for someone at any age. I will keep this mindset, but not sure if I am kidding myself. In the military, do you see 51 year olds that are as fit as 18-22 year olds and/or doing some of the same physical activity as younger soldiers?
How are they doing in 2-3 years? Are they successful soldiers? Can the kids who lost weight keep it off once in the sub-optimal DFACs that the Army has.
Pair this program with a local Armed Forces Wellness Center (AFWC) and we can track the real progress 👍
15m sounds like a lot, but if you average it out among the 8800 that graduated, that’s about 1700 each. That’s not much at all
I want to join the army but im overweight and i want to join the program to reach my goals but I'm having issues with my body.
What the name of the program
Folks complain about this program, but they don't complain about all of the Pre-SOF programs that lead folks to and through SOF pipelines.
Not going to fat camp keeping you big as hell 🙌🙌
Can they keep it off or will they regain the weight after basic then what?
Unfortunately, that’s where we’re at, I guess. So, I’m for it, but man have times changed. I was in 86-91, a whole different thing.
When did the army start using exercise outfits? When I was in training we ran around in our fatigues and boots.
You old like me
@@Bob-p2q9q indeed. No one has answered the question.
Its fat camp not bct. Take it easy.
@Masterbaiter1000 google army basic training uniform,we old people did pt in Boots and fatigues
@@Masterbaiter1000 okay
Its not new. In 2000 we had F.T.U. (fitness training unit) AKA Fat Tired and Useless. This just seems like a better version of that. The US has a fatass problem. Any new recruit willing to go threw this AND basic has my respect. It shows me you really want it.
The academic track bothers me way more than the fitness track. It’s not like an asvab studying program is making recruits smarter, it’s training them to pass the test. For people with language barriers and other extreme cases I get it, but I’ve personally dealt with several privates that came through that program and they’re so dumb that they can’t be tasked to do literally anything without it being positively counterproductive.
The idea is good but they are executing terribly!!! As a prior DS I can say I received a dude that was 5’9 330lbs.
We also had someone with bi-lateral femoral fractures and was influenced to deny profile to ship to basic.
The Drills there are also under a ridiculous microscope. They’re pencil whipping on potential.
However, that 330lbs Soldier was highly motivated and became a per project for all our drills! He was HIGHLY MOTIVATED by the end!
The bi-lateral femoral fracture dude had to go to a holdover company to recover more, but when he came back we got him HIGHLY MOTIVATED!!!! He ended up being a Soldier any NCO would LOVE!
Some of these big backs just need some NCO love 😊 . . . Real NCOs. Not Sergeants scared to push Soldiers or trying to just be friends with their Soldiers.
Blame big corps, food is too calorie dense and there's nothing to do anymore. Even people I've seen in gyms are unhealthy or on steroids. Also the max bmi is 34 i believe so its not that bad tbh
I’m straight, but you are one handsome dude.
Proof is in the pudding, as to results.
End of the day, they just need to get back to basics and stop serving fast food and crap in the chow line. Just get rid of it all together.
Back before contract mess halls, we ate real home cooked chow hall food. Then were run through the chow hall to shovel it in and taste it later. When your burning over 3-5000 calories a day, it pays to know how to put it all on a couple of pieces of bread.
Thanks
I think it's a great idea and inclusive at that (what a woke term, ouch!). People come from different walks of life and being able to level up to required standards shows that US army cares.
I mean that’s good that people who just can’t or won’t dedicate the time to lose weight before basic and can solely focus on that and get paid doing it sounds good but I’m sure it has its drawbacks.
They also need to put current soldiers in the program 😂
The soft part isnt the military. It's the society norm of acceptance.
Test prep
Maximize test scores (I needed that) Online
Numbers (Target)
Stuff like the 12 mile ruck march (good to know)
(Foreign military in the 1990s)
Building better people (after the typical High School education)
Go for it Starship Troopers!
Feed them less
If they are losing 1.7% BF weekly, they MUST be getting fed less
One tubby tubby, two tubby tubby...
MAJ Payne
1.7% body fat a week? 😆 that is how we write NCOERs; we inflate the numbers in our NCOERS. Lol
U.S. Army fat-body platoon 😂
All of those little couch potatoes are gonna be Seal team 12 Delta sniper Recon forces. 😂😂😂😂
Its the only way to get recruits these days. So sad