HEED MY WARNING RECRUITS! I was EASILY the worst in the platoon when it came to fitness. Easily. I was 18 and a heavy smoker. Always switched on in class and field excersise though. And loved every second of bieng in the field. Ever since I 8yrs old, I wanted to be a soldier. It runs in the family for several generations. I decided to join the British Army(a first for my Irish family) the Royal Irish Regiment seemed like the best choice for me. But at that time, I was addicted to that sweet sweet cancer stick. And so, when I was in Catterick, my fitness never progressed. I was always at the back of the platoon in forced marchs and PT in general. And still smoking. I was a weak little kid. I simply pushed myself to the brink and then some. Just barely passing. Choosing to never quit. Got to around week 23/24 and decided I had had enough, and walked right out the gate, and never went back. AWOL. 4 weeks from passing out(royal Irish bieng apart of 16 air assault at the time had 28 weeks training), back squadding looking more likely I decided to be a quitter. It wasn't just back squading that made me quit. There was alot of family issues happening back in Ireland, serious stuff. But those reasons are just excuses. At the end of the day, I chose to quit. 13 years later, I'm sitting in beautiful sunny Australia, as a citizen here, married with 3 beautiful kids. A fantastic life, but feeling miserable a most of the time. I'm turning 32 in a couple of months now and not a single day has gone by where I haven't been utterly filled with regret. Not a single day. And I don't think that feeling is ever going away. I'm fit as a mother fucker now, stronger than I've ever been. If I thought for a second the Army would take me back, even if it's a couple of years in Colchester, I'd jump at it. I'd book my flight back to the UK do my time at MCTC, then straight to basic day 1 week 1. Then when I'm settled, fly my family over. But likely they'd dishonourably discharge me and throw me in a civvie prison for 10 years, where I'm zero use to my wife and kids. Those family issues I mentioned earlier are still plagueing my birth family today, and me quitting the army changed nothing. So if any kids that are joining, and are reading this, learn from my lesson. When it's hard and you feel like shit, or are homesick, don't quit. No matter what, don't ever quit. Ever. Remember my story, carry on and do your job or you'll end up like me, full of regret. I hope my story helps you.
@@kieronmac2233 Happy to hear my story has somewhat helped. I left during weekend leave. Never went back. I've actually since contacted my old regimental HQ, and they gave me the go ahead to come back and go through phase 1 and 2 again. Apparently I was never discharged. But rather sacked. It's called SNLR (service no longer required). It's basically a sacking for young soldiers without giving them a bad reputation. Gives them a chance to give the army another go down the line. But because army pay is so low, immigration wont let me bring my wife and kids after I complete training. So I had to turn down the offer of return. Absolutely gutted.
@Kieron ZX meh I have a long way to go currently finally got a real proper programme in place 5 runs a week tempos/intervals/steady pace Got Instagram?
Keep calling them or turn up at your GP mine after 2 weeks i was calling them first they said they haven't seen it but the lady said she'll look into it and a week later boom..
Hi thanks for the video you put out there to motivate and inform us. I've just had my accessment and waiting on my medical for commonwealth candidates. Honestly can wait to get into basic training
I start phase 1 at the end of February. I've never really been able to do press ups but I can do about 25 without stopping and after about 15 seconds I can do roughly another 10-15. is this good enough for the start of basic training? also my 3.5km run time is currently at 20 minutes and my aim is to be able to run 4km under 20 minutes before I start. i also want to be able to run 7km without stopping regardless of time. is this a good starting block for basic or is it not enough?
You going Catterick or Pirbright/winchester ? I'd do max milage of 6 miles in one run, just focus on getting the time down. You get built up in everything, 7km is more then enough for phase 1, just make sure you're running that 2k in under 9 minutes.
@@YeNZeC I'm heading to Pirbright. my 2km time is roughly 10 minutes atm but I plan on getting that down to 9:30 within the next 2 weeks so that I'm able to get my 4km time below 20 minutes.
hey Craig I go on sunday to join the mighty blues. are the platoons all hcav together.? and do you get your baret day one or have you got to earn it.? thanks craig for the awesome content your number one fan
Yes there are Royal Marines. You can also attempt to become a Royal Marines Officer by applying to Lympstone, however the standards are very very high so make sure you can meet them.
@@CombatReadyHQ I kind of want to join but my parents are against joining because they think I’m 15 and I have loads of time to decide . What’s the danger like ?
It’s just time I’m afraid, I’ve broken many things and with them it’s just time , very frustrating tho mate , keep up the good work and hope you better soon 👍
@@bz4750 I'm going in Light Dragoon regiment which specialises in reconnaissance and Light Cavalry. Royal Lancers also do a similar job. If you want to do more ceremonial type of stuff there are guard regiments and of course the Household Cavalry. However you don't get to chose what area of the armoured corps you go in, you could end up in tank regiments, heavy Cavalry and so on so dont expect to be going in light cav you might get given another role. And my advice ks basic is relatively easy as long as you keep your head down and do as the staff say, strength is not a massive part so dont do weights and stuff just run, run and run more it will help a lot
@@CombatReadyHQ Cheers Chris, should do a video on the whole Armoured Corps. There's not too many videos out there that gives a proper insight or tips on the corps, think it would help a lot of lads who are interested in joining
Thanks for the video. What happens after attending the first day of assessment. Do you go home and wait till you are called back before you prepare for phase 1 training?? Or you go straight to phase 1 training from the very day you turn up for assessment. I am asking as a commonwealth applicant. Thanks
@@FM-wj2jd how it happened with me when I passed they get you to sign a contract and give you dates they booked my bed space at the interview. it all depends on the availability of the courses of the regiment you are joining I guess. hope this helps
Can u do a vid on what the days are like after training like you’re typical working day when on exercise or just on camp and what times the days are ect: would be great 👍
wait about until your platoon commander figures out what he is doing and has a cup of coffee then its break time then you get the weapons out clean them then its lunch and nap time then it's back to weapon cleaning then its lunch the bed time
HEED MY WARNING RECRUITS!
I was EASILY the worst in the platoon when it came to fitness. Easily. I was 18 and a heavy smoker. Always switched on in class and field excersise though. And loved every second of bieng in the field.
Ever since I 8yrs old, I wanted to be a soldier. It runs in the family for several generations.
I decided to join the British Army(a first for my Irish family) the Royal Irish Regiment seemed like the best choice for me. But at that time, I was addicted to that sweet sweet cancer stick.
And so, when I was in Catterick, my fitness never progressed. I was always at the back of the platoon in forced marchs and PT in general. And still smoking. I was a weak little kid.
I simply pushed myself to the brink and then some. Just barely passing. Choosing to never quit.
Got to around week 23/24 and decided I had had enough, and walked right out the gate, and never went back. AWOL. 4 weeks from passing out(royal Irish bieng apart of 16 air assault at the time had 28 weeks training), back squadding looking more likely I decided to be a quitter.
It wasn't just back squading that made me quit. There was alot of family issues happening back in Ireland, serious stuff. But those reasons are just excuses. At the end of the day, I chose to quit.
13 years later, I'm sitting in beautiful sunny Australia, as a citizen here, married with 3 beautiful kids. A fantastic life, but feeling miserable a most of the time.
I'm turning 32 in a couple of months now and not a single day has gone by where I haven't been utterly filled with regret. Not a single day. And I don't think that feeling is ever going away.
I'm fit as a mother fucker now, stronger than I've ever been. If I thought for a second the Army would take me back, even if it's a couple of years in Colchester, I'd jump at it. I'd book my flight back to the UK do my time at MCTC, then straight to basic day 1 week 1. Then when I'm settled, fly my family over.
But likely they'd dishonourably discharge me and throw me in a civvie prison for 10 years, where I'm zero use to my wife and kids.
Those family issues I mentioned earlier are still plagueing my birth family today, and me quitting the army changed nothing.
So if any kids that are joining, and are reading this, learn from my lesson. When it's hard and you feel like shit, or are homesick, don't quit. No matter what, don't ever quit. Ever.
Remember my story, carry on and do your job or you'll end up like me, full of regret.
I hope my story helps you.
@@kieronmac2233 Happy to hear my story has somewhat helped.
I left during weekend leave. Never went back.
I've actually since contacted my old regimental HQ, and they gave me the go ahead to come back and go through phase 1 and 2 again.
Apparently I was never discharged. But rather sacked.
It's called SNLR (service no longer required). It's basically a sacking for young soldiers without giving them a bad reputation.
Gives them a chance to give the army another go down the line.
But because army pay is so low, immigration wont let me bring my wife and kids after I complete training.
So I had to turn down the offer of return. Absolutely gutted.
@Kieron ZX good luck at the assessment centre mate, I’m currently training to join the light mech inf 👍🏽
@Kieron ZX meh I have a long way to go currently finally got a real proper programme in place 5 runs a week tempos/intervals/steady pace
Got Instagram?
Still waiting on my GP to send my med forms over. Getting super impatient waiting but giving me more time to prep. Cheers Craig!
Yes just keep prepping
same
Same with me, its been like a month.. so last week i asked careers office to send the letter again etc.. what role you looking at joining
Mine got sent back within a week waiting for assessment centre date now
Keep calling them or turn up at your GP mine after 2 weeks i was calling them first they said they haven't seen it but the lady said she'll look into it and a week later boom..
I’m going to Harrogate on March 7th, I’ve watched a few of your videos and they’re really helpful mate! Thanks
How long does it take from assessment centre to the basic training ?
Brilliant thank you, good luck, you will enjoy it
Different for each individual
The September intake must be full?
@@CombatReadyHQ thanks just going through the process for Reme that’s all 👍🏻
Got my Assessment 24th Feb then hopefully start Basic Training. These videos have been helping me a lot so thank you
I also have assessment on 19th feb . All the best to us
Mine aint till 29th march, good luck!
Did you make it in the army
@@jameskealaher6191 Yes mate I’m currently in basic training now!
@@shaunrussell9138 how’s training going ?
Hi thanks for the video you put out there to motivate and inform us. I've just had my accessment and waiting on my medical for commonwealth candidates. Honestly can wait to get into basic training
No worries and that's good. Good luck
I really love watching the videos and they make me want to do something other than staying inside all day like a lazy slug.🤔
Thank you glad they do 🙏🤙
Assessment centre in Edinburgh 15th of Feb💪🏻
Good luck and enjoy
Good luck mate & enjoy 👍
What you getting on the beep test?
@@theogrimshaw5228 Hitting about 9.1/9.2, only need 6.6 to pass so it’s easy
@@Jack-pv3rx ohh good lad what reg?
Anyone going to AFC on September 12th?
You will also do a mental amount of ironing buy a properly decent one it will save a lot of time 😅
One with constant steam too otherwise its dramas time 🤣🤣🤣👍🏻
Going Surrey end of November wish me luck 💪🏼
Good luck mate
You always putting out great info thanks
Thanks bro, glad you like it
Thanks for the tip was very help full I have my ITC Intake on the 14th your tips was very helpful
Thank you glad they have helped. Good luck
I start phase 1 at the end of February. I've never really been able to do press ups but I can do about 25 without stopping and after about 15 seconds I can do roughly another 10-15. is this good enough for the start of basic training?
also my 3.5km run time is currently at 20 minutes and my aim is to be able to run 4km under 20 minutes before I start.
i also want to be able to run 7km without stopping regardless of time. is this a good starting block for basic or is it not enough?
You going Catterick or Pirbright/winchester ? I'd do max milage of 6 miles in one run, just focus on getting the time down. You get built up in everything, 7km is more then enough for phase 1, just make sure you're running that 2k in under 9 minutes.
@@YeNZeC I'm heading to Pirbright. my 2km time is roughly 10 minutes atm but I plan on getting that down to 9:30 within the next 2 weeks so that I'm able to get my 4km time below 20 minutes.
Phase 1 28th Feb, Pirbright😁
When was your assessment mate?
@@alexclarke5497 19th Jan pal
This came at a great time considering I start in less that two weeks !
Amazing, enjoy training 🤙
Me too what’s your date
@@Mark-tj1vc 14th of feb at Pirbright
@@eligil4629 same here
@@eligil4629 same here u
Hey I love armyman exercises can you do a video on fighting exercise or self defence.
hey Craig I go on sunday to join the mighty blues. are the platoons all hcav together.? and do you get your baret day one or have you got to earn it.? thanks craig for the awesome content your number one fan
It will be a mixture of corp's and regiment's. You won't get your cap badge until after your drill test
I'm 11 and I really want to go in the millatary (the marines if there is one)
Yes there are Royal Marines.
You can also attempt to become a Royal Marines Officer by applying to Lympstone, however the standards are very very high so make sure you can meet them.
I’m in phase 2 atm, try and get an intake in the spring so your exercise should be in good weather ;)
🤙
@@CombatReadyHQ I kind of want to join but my parents are against joining because they think I’m 15 and I have loads of time to decide . What’s the danger like ?
@@itzdougie9745 where on death con 5 atm no need to worrie
@@itzdougie9745 although the dangers low atm, u shouldnt really apply for any combat roles if you dont want the danger
Love running I train like every weekend no less than a 15km run
Great video again Craig, how’s the hand coming along mate ?
Thanks mate, slowly getting there. Still no movement or sensation in the thumb but I'm sure it'll come back soon
It’s just time I’m afraid, I’ve broken many things and with them it’s just time , very frustrating tho mate , keep up the good work and hope you better soon 👍
Hey mate I’m starting my basic training in feb is it normal to be this nervous?
Yes it would be wrong if you weren't nervous. Its a big goal of yours and you want to perform well so nerves are normal
Anyone off harrogate march 14th?
Was It 4/73 or 47/32 that weren't giving enough spaces? Couldn't quite catch that part.
Ive got an assessment on the 23rd, if i pass when do you think ill do training
I'm 11 and I really want to go in the millatary and I want to go to the marines if there is one
Im going harrogate 14th march infantry intake anyone else?
Hi im waiting for my assessment date and im really struggling with my nutrition, is there any chance you could do a video on it please?
Yes I can do one on this
@@CombatReadyHQ thankyou! i love your videos theyve helped me so much
Could you do a video on light cavalry crewman such as regiments you can go into and stuff like that by any chance? Hard to find any info anywhere
I'm in phase 2 for light cav mate what do you want to know?
@@marcowatson848 everything haha, no like what your specialisations what regiments can you join and how’s it all going
@@bz4750 I'm going in Light Dragoon regiment which specialises in reconnaissance and Light Cavalry. Royal Lancers also do a similar job. If you want to do more ceremonial type of stuff there are guard regiments and of course the Household Cavalry. However you don't get to chose what area of the armoured corps you go in, you could end up in tank regiments, heavy Cavalry and so on so dont expect to be going in light cav you might get given another role. And my advice ks basic is relatively easy as long as you keep your head down and do as the staff say, strength is not a massive part so dont do weights and stuff just run, run and run more it will help a lot
Good advice there, the only choice you will get Is household Calvary. I will do a video on this
@@CombatReadyHQ Cheers Chris, should do a video on the whole Armoured Corps. There's not too many videos out there that gives a proper insight or tips on the corps, think it would help a lot of lads who are interested in joining
Are they still clay kickers?
Please can you do a video on light dragoons cav crewmen pls
I can look into this for you
@@CombatReadyHQ thanks mate 👍🏻
Thanks for the video. What happens after attending the first day of assessment. Do you go home and wait till you are called back before you prepare for phase 1 training?? Or you go straight to phase 1 training from the very day you turn up for assessment. I am asking as a commonwealth applicant. Thanks
Thank you, yes once you pass assessment you will wait for a start date
@@CombatReadyHQ averagely how long does that take from experience?
@@FM-wj2jd how it happened with me when I passed they get you to sign a contract and give you dates they booked my bed space at the interview. it all depends on the availability of the courses of the regiment you are joining I guess. hope this helps
@@all4games825 sounds about right, cheers I appreciate the reply!
@David which country are you in, currently ?
Anyone start Pirbright on 21st Feb?
Few lads on army rumour service w that start date if you haven't seen already boss
Anybody start 14th of February
At Catterick yes
@@joshharrygriffiths5303 I’m starting pirbright
Same u got insta or that
When was your assessment mate?
@@alexclarke5497 9th of December
Can u do a vid on what the days are like after training like you’re typical working day when on exercise or just on camp and what times the days are ect: would be great 👍
wait about until your platoon commander figures out what he is doing and has a cup of coffee then its break time then you get the weapons out clean them then its lunch and nap time then it's back to weapon cleaning then its lunch the bed time
Do you pay for the food during basic training?
no you don't it comes out your pay though basic
Please can videos on driver job
I can look at this yes
My mate has been in phase one for 9 weeks now and he said he hasn’t ran more than 1 mile
Really!?
@@CombatReadyHQ Yh he said you do more tabbing than running
Gokil
If i can know are you army?
Biggest one dont be Jack, do the block jobs
A grot bag! 😂😂😂👌🏻
🤙😂
Can you join the British Army with Crohn’s disease?
Unfortunately I don't think so. On the army's website you can look up what can medically disqualify you from joining.
@@jennifergilmore7261 ok thanks
please good morning, Please I'm a girl from Africa please can you help me to join British army ?
You need to apply through British army website when commonwealth applications open
@@CombatReadyHQ thanks
March the 7th 🤙🤙🤙
Hello mate where you going on March 7th as my intake date is that date at catterick
@@tobyfitzgibbon8184 aye winchester bud, have fun at Catterick, such a lovely place 😉🤣
@@fatbatmanstreams272 I’ll see you in Winchester mate, March 7th here too, you on the Facebook page for our intake?
Feb 14th Catterick?
Yes mate
@@jamesmitchell1240 what reg bro
@@donbarry1 1rifles mate you ?, what company have you been given
@@jamesmitchell1240 I’m going 1royal irish I’m in kings division you?
@@donbarry1 yeh same mate, where you from