Preparing to enter Navy Boot Camp takes serious dedication and hard work. Some people think that if they complete hand to hand combat training or martial arts training before they get to camp that they'll be fine. While this kind of training won't hurt you, it's probably not enough to prepare you for the rigors of Boot Camp. To get ready both physically and mentally, you need to know what to expect.

Boot Camp for the United States Navy starts in Great Lakes, Illinois at Recruit Training Command (RTC). Lots of new recruits are nervous about going to Boot Camp. No doubt they've heard horror stories from past sailors about the trials of training to be a sailor. Others are very excited and eager to take on the challenge. Regardless of your outlook going in, it can be very helpful to know what kinds of challenges you will be facing during training.

First of all, be prepared to wake up at 6:00 a.m. every day. If you don't get up that early now, it's time you started. You need to put your body on a strict schedule when it comes to getting sleep and waking up. You will need lots of rest for all of the physical conditioning exercises you will go through.

Physical conditioning tests are part of the experience. You will test your abilities in several areas including running 1.5 miles, sit-ups, and push-ups.

In additional to getting your body into shape, you will learn a lot at Boot Camp. Things like first-aid, signaling, seamanship, and weapon training are all a part of the experience. When it comes to weapons, you will learn basic safety and then move to the range to practice.

As you progress through the eight-week long program, you will be changed. Training includes very rigorous physical conditioning, classroom and hand-on instruction, and a restricted diet. In the second half of the program, trainees will complete fire fighting and damage control training. Throughout the entire training program, you will learn teamwork and build camaraderie with your division.

Eventually your division will be tested on everything you have learned at Boot Camp. And if you succeed you will be awarded the title of United States Sailor.

Things to Take With You to Boot Camp

• marriage certificate or divorce decree
• birth certificates for your spouse and children, if you have any
• prescription medicines
• college transcripts
• medical records
• no more than $25.00
• stamps
• prescription eyeglasses or contacts
• any court documents regarding child support or alimony

Entering the Navy can be very rewarding. After your enlistment, you will have developed many new skills, learned more about yourself, and built the confidence you need to be successful - even in the civilian world. Many people choose to enter the Navy to help them earn money towards college, but it also looks great on your resume and can help you land a great job when your enlistment time is up.