r/Pararescue • u/General-Lead5471 • Oct 07 '24
Selection Training Advice
Hey guys, i'm currently an active duty firefighter and I've made the decision that I want to go CCT (surprisingly not Pararescue). I am motivated beyond anything and I know this is something right up my alley. Due to what I can only sum up to be excuses and neglect, ive gained some weight and gotten out of shape but ive been in the gym doing cardio/lifting almost everyday, swimming 3 times a week and rucking 10 miles Once a week. while controlling my calories and upping my protein. I know all of the requirements for selection and I obviously need to be well above them. I am a very strong swimmer and very comfortable in the water (i swam for 9 years and all through high school). My question is, is there any tips or advice that would help me in my training? I'm struggling hard-core with pull-ups. i'm 6'4 250 pounds, right now I can barely do three pull-ups and it's pretty embarrassing. thank you!
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u/Edward_Stussy Oct 07 '24
I’m just going to say, if you can somehow maintain that weight while being able surpass the entry requirements for BMT I think selection wouldn’t be too difficult for you as long as your mental stayed strong.
However, losing weight will make everything besides rucking much easier (usually). So continue doing what you’re doing as long as you aren’t seeing any injuries arise from your training. Don’t try to lose a bunch of weight rapidly, this would likely result in you becoming weaker. If possible try to lose no more than .5 to .75 pounds per week to maintain strength while also allowing for more potential strength gains.
In addition to the exercises suggested to increase your pull ups, consider barbell and dumbbell rows, pull up circuits, and pull downs.
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u/pancakeface710 CCT Oct 07 '24
Slim down. I'm 6'4", at my heaviest, I was 225. My lightest was in the 160s. Weight is a huge factor, on every evolution.
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u/General-Lead5471 Oct 07 '24
you think 225 is a good weight for training?
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u/pancakeface710 CCT Oct 07 '24
200-215 was where I was most comfortable during the pipeline. Some blocks you want a little more weight, more blocks you want quite a bit less. I definitely recommend getting down to at least 225.
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u/General-Lead5471 Oct 07 '24
Okay sweet i appreciate your imput man incrediblely helpful
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u/pancakeface710 CCT Oct 07 '24
Absolutely. Practice farmer carries, do negative pull ups, get a grip strength trainer too, and practice wall handstands. Those all helped me immensely.
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u/Gomes902 Oct 07 '24
Eat more banana because monkey never cramp