Over the past few years I have wholeheartedly embraced unconventional fitness training methods. My desire was to take my strength, conditioning, and threshold of pain somewhere it has never been. This desire was rooted in the fact that my job requires me to be in excellent shape; having been a United States Marine for the past fifteen years (and counting), fitness has been a significant part of my life. A few years ago the Marine Corps implemented what is called the Combat Fitness Test in order to ensure Marines are ready for what they will potentially face in combat. We have always used what could be considered unconventional methods. After all, what is our obstacle course if not a step away from the norm? Recognizing the need for this type of conditioning, it is now an evaluated requirement.
Being fit and ready translates into the ability to maintain presence of mind while performing rigorous tasks when all hell is breaking loose (and it will break loose). During my recent deployment to Afghanistan, I had the honor and privilege of spending most of my time there with Marines conducting combat operations. I won’t embellish with stories about gun fights, but many experiences there illustrated the usefulness of conditioning that only comes from unconventional training methods.
It’s not at all far fetched to have to patrol for hours at a time with close to 90 pounds on your body. Our vests with armored plates and ammunition alone weigh about 50 pounds, and that’s before you fill your camelback! Add to that your weapon, optics, and now your pack. Of course there are lots and lots of security halts, where you get down on one knee, even though your body would rather stand, hunch, or lean on something. Anyone wondering what this feels like can just grab a pair of kettlebells or a sandbag and do plenty of lunges.
Once an attack comes, you will definitely want what high intensity intervals will provide you in the way of cardio work capacity and explosive power. In Helmand Province there are a lot of compounds surrounded by tall, thick walls made from mud. These are usually the cover that we’re sprinting to, and many times jumping and climbing over for cover. One time or another, you tend to have to snatch a buddy and either push or pull him over one of those walls. I believe deeply that being conditioned, strong, and ready helped keep us alive. I am also certain that I couldn’t bear the thought of getting myself killed, or worse (getting my buddy killed) because I didn’t get my mind and body ready. That would be simply unacceptable!
Unconventional Training & Combat Prep Workout 1
A1: Tire flip - 5 x 5
A2: 1-Hand Slam w/Sledgehammer - 5 x 5 L/R
A3: 2-Hand Anyhow w/ Kettlebell & Sandbag - 5 x 3-5 L/R
A4: Farmer Walk w/Kettlebell & Sandbag - 5 x 50m
No rest between exercises and minimal rest between sets.
Unconventional Training & Combat Prep Workout 2
A1: Double Kettlebell Dead Snatch - 5 x 5
A2: Double Kettlebell Clean - 5 x 5
A3: Gorilla Cleans - 5 x 5
A4: Walking Lunge w/Kettlebells Racked - 5 x 50m
No rest between exercises and minimal rest between sets.
Unconventional Training Equipment Notes
- Tire used is from a truck we call the 7-ton. Tire weighs approximately 275 lbs.
- Sandbags are filled to weigh approximately 75-100lbs depending on the individual’s strength.
- Sledgehammer and tire drills are usually performed with a FLAK jacket or weighted vest.
Article Information:
This article was featured in the June/July 2011 Issue of the My Mad Methods Magazine. "Unconventional Training & Combat Prep" was written by Angel Otero. Learn more about the My Mad Methods Magazine by Clicking Here
Contributor Information:
Master Sergeant Angel Otero (34) is from Toughkenamon, Pennsylvania and has been in the United States Marine Corps for 15 years. He is currently serving as an Infantry Weapons Company Operations Chief with 1st Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment in Camp Lejeune, North Carolina. He currently resides in Hubert, North Carolina with his wife (Carmen) of 13 years and his two children Kaira (7), and Angel Jr (6).
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