Time and time again, the same Navy SEALs questions are brought to the forefront. What are the age requirements? Can women join the SEALs? How can I get started? These are the common questions that are often times asked by those interested in becoming a SEAL in the near future.
Of course, there are other questions that don’t come up nearly as often. That being said, they are every bit as important. Many of them are based around BUD/S training.
Here are five training related questions you need to answer before you decide on this path.
What type of equipment do I need to attend BUD/S?
When you train to become a Navy SEAL you are not required to buy anything on your own. Instead, you are supplied with everything that you will need. That being said, there are things you can do before training starts to better your chance of success. For example, you will be swimming with fins on a regular basis. You may want to buy a pair of these and use them before you are shipped off to training. This way you are ahead of the curve from the start.
I heard that you need to learn to SCUBA before attending BUD/S. Is this true?
This is a common myth. During the second phase of training you will learn everything you need to know about SCUBA and related techniques. As noted before, if you have time before training commences to practice SCUBA you might as well do so. This will help you when training finally begins.
While at BUD/S will the Navy relocate my family?
The short answer is yes – but there is more to it than that. The Navy does not relocate your family until you pass the first phase of training, which includes four weeks (concluded by Hell Week). After successful completion of this phase, the Navy will relocate your family to San Diego, California, at no expense to you.
What happens if I don’t make it through BUD/S Training?
This is not the end of the world. Instead of becoming a Navy SEAL, you will be reclassified within another division of the Navy. From there, you have to serve a two year assignment before reapplying to BUD/S. While this may seem like a bad thing, it will give you the chance to serve your country and better prepare for training in the future – if you decide to give it another go.
What can I do to get ready for BUD/S?
There is no denying that this is the most intense training you will ever face – both physically and mentally. If you follow the Physical Training Guide offered by the Navy you are doing all you can to prepare yourself for the work that is to come. Designed by the director of fitness at the Naval Special Warfare Center, this 26 week program will put you on the right track.
If you want to become a Navy SEAL you have to make your way through BUD/S training. There is no way around this.
Are you ready for the most intense training of your life? Be prepared that cold water can make a coward of any of us. The mental strain often equates or exceeds the physical. The questions and answers above should help you decide if you have what it takes to complete BUD/S.
