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We recently interviewed a new graduate of fall OCSĀ in 2017. Thanks to Candidate X for their insight into the new changes implemented with fall OCS. Q: How did you study for the new test structure? Speaking in general terms about my study habits, I made sure to put in as much time as possible studying before I set foot on Brown Field, and I would … Continue reading Headed to Fall OCS? Here is Everything You Need to Know
This is a recommended modification for a female friend just looking to lose some weight for her wedding by using Marine Corps-style PT. Get some! Instead of PPPA, do a circuit of sets of pushups, crunches, overhead presses, and lastly pullups or curls. So try doing 10 (girl) pushups, 30 seconds rest, 20 crunches, rest, 10 overheadĀ presses, and finishing with pullups or curls, just some … Continue reading PPPA (Push, Pull, Press, Abs) Home Gym Alternative
I challenge all candidates to achieve these minimum benchmarks before getting to OCS, and using them as training goals. This will put you in decent standing, but not the top of your class if these are your max sets. MALE Pullups: Max set 18 Pushups: Max setĀ 65 Run: 21:00 3-mile Run: 880 meter sprint in 3:15 in boots (2:45 running shoes) Flutterkicks: Max set 60 … Continue reading One Easy Cheat Sheet to See if You’re Physically Ready for OCS
Candidates, there are so many motivators out there who bother me every day with questions like, “What more can I do to prepare for OCS?” that I am debuting a new series of posts. This summer’s posts will give you plenty of ways to use up all your time before OCS to get ready or motivated for your future Marine Corps life.
Today’s post: These are my personal recommendations of films to watch to either learn about USMC culture, history, or a general United States warrior ethos (vis-a-vis Band of Brothers).
The PacificĀ centers on the experiences of three Marines (Eugene Sledge,Ā Robert LeckieĀ andĀ John Basilone) who were all in different
Regiments of theĀ 1st Marine Division. You should read the books it was based on–but wait for a future post on that. The program was lauded by critics but actually met mixed reviews by the Marines I know, due to the overall depressing mood. Historically accurate, it shows war for the hell it is, so don’t expect any “tales of glory” like an old John Wayne-type movie. Still, it’s important history and you should view the stories with the mindset, “one day, men such as those will be ‘my Marines,’ who I will be leading.”
Greatest war mini series ever. Not Marines, but soldiering is soldiering. The series holds many lessons of leadership and warfighting that will be highlighted at OCS and beyond.
Continue reading “Recommended Motivation: Films You’ll Love”
We’re on facebook. This will make it easier to share and follow new content, and give an easy forum for asking questions when the Q&A pages and comments area on here gets crowded. So, there you go. Friend the blog on the ‘book and don’t look back. Friend the USMC OCS blogĀ Ā Continue reading Hooray Social Media.
The “Candidates’ Curse:” Patellar Tendinitis Many candidates get patellar tendinitis, “jumper’s knee” or runners knee at OCS or while preparing for it. If you are truly injured in your preparation for OCS, you first need to be honest and open with your OSO. If you shouldn’t get sent to OCS, but attempt to “sneak” in, they will find your injury during medical inprocessing or the … Continue reading Help! My knee hurts. How can I run?
Candidate Comment: This is more for peace of mind, than anything else, so feel free to take your time responding. I can run approximately a 275 PFT (I vary from around 270 to 285). However, while working out in a local gym, someone who used to be a Marine told me that I do not have the ālookā of a 2nd LT. Not a attractiveness … Continue reading Candidate Q: Skinny Lieutenants: Impossible!
Candidates, we are running a series of small posts which answer specific candidate’s questions. Feel free to submit questions as blog comments. If the information could help others, the question may be answered as a blog post under the Q&A category. Candidate Question: I am a recent graduate from college and have been feverishly training (physically) for OCS for about a year now. Iāve done … Continue reading Candidate Q: How do I learn the basics before OCS?
Candidate Question: I am 6 feet tall and 200lbs at approximately 15% body fat. Iād like to maintain the definition in my arms and shoulders (chest shouldnāt be a problem considering the amount of pushups done during OCS). Is there any place I can train with weights during Liberty? A: Imagine if you werenāt so obsessed with your own appearance and were instead focused on … Continue reading Candidate Q: “Bodybuilder” at OCS
Reservists Marines currently serving in the Marine Corps Reserve may apply for programs such asĀ PLCĀ andĀ OCCĀ through theirĀ Officer Selection Officer. Commissioning Programs for active duty enlisted Marines include: Enlisted Commissioning Program (ECP) For Marines who have earned a four-year degree before joining the Corps or during active duty Qualified Marines attendĀ Officer Candidates School (OCS) Upon completion of OCS, they are commissioned as second lieutenants Reserve Officer opportunities … Continue reading How can currently enlisted Marines become officers?
