I'm 27 and still can't run...

[Norm357]

So what? Norm357 is 36 and he can't ... get ... it ... uhh ... disregard that - I think he's got some medication for that now.

Thank God for science!:D

[MagDLina]

Sorry for the delay in my response. I've been kinda busy this week with everything they through at you at the academy. Anyway, I passed everything without any problems. I did my run almost 2 minutes faster than before. I had no problems with any of the other events either. Thanks to everyone for all their help and advice!

Awesome!!! Congratulations!!! Now keep up the good work and keep pushing those limits. You will only get stronger and faster!

[Mr Castle]

I've allways had a hard time running long distance, but I do much better now. I run 3 times a week, 3 miles each time. It works for me.

[Dachadman]

Congratulations! I knew you'd do it! Like the others have said, when it comes down to it, and you MUST pass, you'll manage to pull from a reserve you didn't know you had.

Once again, good job and I wish you luck in the future!

[Edmond]

Ellis,

What kind of machine do they use to measure the bench press?

Like you, I'm in Illinois as well and we fall into the same age/requirement category.

My concern was with the running. I could run a mile easily but that extra 1/2 was a concern at first. I started running and I can cover 1.5 miles in less than 12 minutes.

I'm only about 140 pounds so I'll have no problem with the bench press. I've been bench pressing for many years with free weights. I'm sure that I can pass that, the reach and the situps easily.

What agency did you test for?

[ellis redding]

In illinois they test using a dynamic variable resistance bench press machine. Basically you do one rep that starts at 60% resistance and ends at 100% resistance. So for me 98% of my body weight was 207 lbs. I started pushing when the bar weighed about 130lbs and by the time I reached the top it was at 207 lbs. However, the machine is way easier than free weights. It doesn't sound like you'll have any trouble. I got hired on in Decatur, IL and I graduate from PTI in about 2 weeks.

[Alexander Smith]

Hey, I'm only 15, but I understand the strain of running. I used to run 15 minutes a day. (Not sure how far I ran though). I hated running so much :(, it felt like you were tearing your body up with all the stomping and ragged breathing, not to mention the feeling AFTER you run, sort of like you can't get enough liquid in your body. My brother, who ran with me, decided to have us run a full 30 minutes, and I just fell over on the pavement after that. :p After Katrina, I couldn't find time to run because I had to work all day at my house, but I'm trying to get back into it now. Stangely, as much as I hated it, it felt SO awesome being fit, and having lots of energy and stamina.

Keep it up, I'm sure you'll do great, you sound like you have a lot of determination, and ability, I wish you luck, and I hope you pass with flying colors!!

[FIX BAYONETS!®]

Dieting helps. Eat some Powerbars and other energy filled drinks/food. They help a lot.