Thinking

By: L Jones

I thought I was in better shape than I was. This became apparent when I took my semi-annual Army physical fitness test (APFT) on 18 March 2009. On the push-up portion of the test, I performed 55 push-ups in two minutes. This may sound good to some, but the physical fitnes test is graded on a 100 point number scale. Each of the three events of the APFT award a maximum of 100 points for a maximum total of 300 points for the test. In the push-up category for my age, I need to perform 73 push-ups in two minutes to max the test.

Well, if you look at the document that I’ve attached, which is an actual copy of my APFT scores, you can see that today I maxed my push ups and my sit-ups. My run still needs some tweaking, but ultimately the program that I followed was a success.

TIP 1: Be honest with yourself. When I finished taking the APFT on March 18, I could not do another push-up. I took that for what it was and had to figure out how to do more push ups.

TIP 2: To get better at a particular exercise, you have to do that exercise. My work-outs were centered around getting better at my push-ups, sit-ups and run. My next blog, I will explain my routine and also attach my own personal journal.

TIP 3: Get a partner. Never under estimate the power of competition. A partner can help to motivate you, inspire you, push you etc. The way my routine is set up, it gives me and my partner an opportunity to compete against each other. The trick is to find a partner who is equal to or above your current level.

TIP 4: Get your mind right. Nuf said.

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