Page 152 – Mountain Tactical Institute

In designing this training plan we brought to bear the decade of experience we’ve had in designing military and law enforcement special forces selection training plans. This 8-Week, sport-specific program is ruck-intensive, reflecting the ruck-heavy characteristic of Civil Affairs selection, but also includes focused APFT and 5-Mile run training for initial selection gates.

The APFT, 5-Mile Run, 8-Mile Ruck and MTI-inspired multi-modal work capacity event are assessed three times during this training plan and follow-on progressions are based on the athlete’s most recent assessment results. In this way the plan automatically “scales” to the incoming fitness of the athlete and continues to push them as their fitness improves.

This program gets progressively harder each week, until week 8, when the training tapers down into the start of selection. The plan is designed to be completed the 8 weeks directly before selection. Again, week 8 is a taper into the event.

This is an intense training plan which will demand physical and time commitment. To successfully complete this program you’ll need to make training for selection a priority during your work day.

Ruck Intensive
This plan is “sport specific” to the specific fitness demands you’ll face at the Civil Affairs Selection and Assessment – specifically rucking, running, work capacity “smokers,” grip strength, etc. You’ll ruck 2 days/week and run 3 days/week. It also includes:

Testing and progressive training for the APFT
Extended, multi-modal work capacity events
Grip strength training.
Shoulder strength endurance work
Loaded runs and carries
Intense core, mobility, and stabilizer strength training for durability
4-Square Drills for ankle and knee durability

The plan includes 48 Total Training Sessions. It is intended that you’ll train Monday-Thursday with a long ruck on Saturday. Friday and Sunday are rest days.

Weekly Training Schedule

Monday: APFT Work & PM – Ruck Run Intervals
Tuesday: Work Capacity, Chassis Integrity
Wednesday: 2-Mile Run Intervals for 5 Mile Run Improvement
Thursday: APFT Work
Friday: Rest
Saturday: Long Ruck

We’ve also built two plans for follow on Civil Affairs training – one for those preparing the Civil Affairs Q-Course, and one designed for the latter portion of the Civil Affairs Post Language Course Training Plan to ensure success on the final physical gates of the training pipeline. This course, and those two are included together in 3-plan Civil Affairs Selection & Training Pipeline Packet.

Questions?
Email coach@mtntactical.com

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Plan Focus: Teton Grand Traverse Training Plan

by SSD

Ryan Burke atop Teewinot, the first summit of the Grand Traverse. Grand Teton is in the background. Andy Bardon photo.

By Rob Shaul

I’ve never personally completed the Grand Traverse. Best I’ve done is the Cathedral Traverse – the first 3 peaks – Teewinot, Owen and the Grand. MTI Athlete and Senior Exum Guide Brenton Reagan lead me up and over these peaks one day a few years ago.

It wouldn’t be accurate to say Brenton “guided” me – more like “dragged.” There was no easy “guide’s pace” hike up the steeps to the top of Teewinot, and while walking across a ledge with a several thousand foot drop below somewhere near the Gunsight Notch between Owen and The Grand, I asked Brenton, “Hey, shouldn’t I be roped up for this?”

He responded. “No, you’re good. Just don’t look down.”

Several mountain runners and alpinists have completed the entire traverse in day – under 12 hours, solo. The climbing isn’t difficult by most standards – 5.8 in spots – but the exposure is severe. Solo completers free-solo these parts – no rope. The Fastest Known Time is just over 6 hours.

One of my former athletes, Brian Harder, described free soloing the east face of The Grand during his 11-hour 1-day traverse. He got off-route, and had to down climb some sketchy 5.8. “I was so scared I almost threw up,” he remembered.

With 10 Peaks, 14 Miles, 24,000 feet vertical gain and loss, the Teton Grand Traverse is perhaps the premier alpine traverse in the lower 48. Most complete the Grand Traverse in 2-3 days, with one or two bivys.

Starting elevation is 6,700 feet. The Grand Traverse links Teewinot, Mount Owen, the Grand Teton, Middle Teton, South Teton, Ice Cream Cone, Gilkey Tower, Spalding, Cloudveil Dome and Nez Perce for a total of ten summits.

While the mileage is not insignificant, the 24,000 feet of vertical gain and loss is the “crux” on the fitness side. Most of the route is 3rd and 4th class scrambling, up and down, up and down granite. Hence the major fitness demand – uphill hiking under load endurance, and specific leg strength and endurance for uphill and downhill movement.

The Teton Grand Traverse Training Plan is intense, 8 week, 6-day/week training plan designed to prepare athletes for the fitness demands of the Teton Grand Traverse. It is designed to be completed the 8 weeks directly before the climb. Week 8 in the plan is an unload/taper week.

This program combines loaded vertical climbing, focused eccentric leg strength training for the descent, bodyweight strength and core, long trail runs and 1x day/week rock climb training.

Here is the weekly schedule:

Monday: Loaded Step Ups or Vertical Ascent
Tuesday: Eccentric Leg Strength Training, Bodyweight upper body and core, Moderate Run (Possible 2-A-Day)
Wednesday: Climbing Fitness in Bouldering Gym
Thursday:Loaded Step Ups or Vertical Ascent
Friday:Eccentric Leg Strength Training, Bodyweight upper body and core, Moderate Run (Possible 2-A-Day)
Saturday: Long Trail Run out to 13 miles.

This is not a beginner’s program. Athletes need to have a high level of fitness before beginning the program.

Week one includes two days of strength training, 3000 feet of vertical movement, a 8 miles of moderate running and 7 mile trail run. The program increases in difficulty and volume from there and peaks at Week 7 with 7,000 feet of vertical movement, 20 miles of moderate running and a 13 mile trail run.

Click the Product Image above, then the “Sample Training” tab to see the entire first week of programming. We recommend athletes complete this before purchase to see if they are ready.

Required Equipment

This is a limited equipment training plan. The strength training in the gym is bodyweight only. Below is the required equipment:

– Steep Hill, Stadium Steps, or 16-inch Step Up Bench for vertical movement

– Backpack with 25 pounds of load

– Pull Up Bar

– Foam Roller

– Bouldering Gym for Wednesday’s V-Sum

Recommended Equipment

– Wrist GPS to monitor running mileage

– Hand Counter to count step ups

This is an endurance-heavy program which demands commitment in both effort and time. Sessions last 60-180 Minutes. Bodyweight Strength Training (Tuesday/Thursday) is designed to take 30-40 minutes, but these sessions also include a moderate run which can be completed directly after the strength work or later in the day as a 2-a-day. Endurance days could extend to 180 minutes.

Questions?
Email rob@mtntactical.com

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Rob’s 9 Backcountry Scouting & Backpacking Kit Essentials

by SSD

Wyatt Shaul glasses for big mule deer bucks last week.

By Rob Shaul

Below details the kit I’m currently running and/or recommend for backcountry hunt scouting (mule deer & elk) in summer. This kit would also work for backpacking. Note that many of these items are on promotive.com – military, LE and mountain professionals should all qualify for this program.

PACK AND ESSENTIALS

1. Pack

Elberestock X2 Pack. This little bomber pack has a simple aluminum frame and handy, long, outside pouches which hold my hydration bladder, tripod and spotting scope. It’s comparatively heavy and this extra pouch volume isn’t needed for backpacking – but it rides super well, is super durable and organizes my gear perfectly for my scouting.

For backpacking (no optics needed) I roll with the Black Diamond Speed 30 pack. This is a bomber, multi-use, light pack from one of the top alpine gear makers out there – Black Diamond.

2. Cook Kit

Jetboil Flashlite Stove.
Sea to Summit X-Mug Collapsable Mug
Titanium Spork
Tooth Brush/Floss. I put a glob of tooth pasts in the bottom of a zip lock. I keep this in a baggy in by food bag.

3. Food

Breakfast: Starbucks Via Instant Coffee and a ProBar Meal Bar. Meal Bars are great calorie per ounce fuel and you can get them on Promotive.
Snacks between meals: Honey Stinger Waffles These are awesome – and also on Promotive
Lunch: Hard Salami, Hard Cheese and Coffee, or a Probar Meal Bar.
Dinner: Mountain House or other Freeze Dried Meal. Mountain House is on Promotive.

4. Emergency Kit

Black DIamond Spot Head Lamp (Trick: Make sure you turn one of the batteries around before you pack so the lamp doesn’t get bumped on and drain the batteries)
Sunscreen (Trick: You don’t need a full container. I fill a small, empty medicine bottle and take it only).
Sunglasses – I wear Native Kodiak sunglasses
Ibuprofen
15 Feet Paracord
Ace Bandage
Athletic Tape (doubles as bandaid)
Moleskin
Firestarter and Lighter
Extra batteries for Headlamp

5. Water

Water is a big deal deer scouting. I like to bivy on the ridges … which means I have to carry my water (4-5 Liters) up from the last water source – usually 1,000-2,000 feet below – later in the summer. I use a 2-3 Liter Camel Back reservoir and carry extra water with Platypus collapsable bottles.

The Sawyer Mini filter is light, cheap and works great.

6. Electronics

Delorme In-Reach (no cell service and I often scout alone – not needed if you have cell service and/or are scouting with others). This unit allows me to send pre-set text messages at night letting family know I’m safe, and send an SOS for help if I get hurt and can’t get out on my own.
Smart Phone – Photos, GPS (Gaia App), Maps (Topo Map App)Kindle Reader (I read a book at night). With apps, you can download topo maps and use your phone for a GPS. It’s awesome.

Also, I’ll get on Google Earth, take screenshots of the area I’m scouting, and email the photos to my phone. Super handy!

7. Sleep System

Outdoor Research Helium Bivy – Light and bomber. I use a bivy over a tent – I’ve been rained on this thing and stayed dry. A bivy is lighter, faster, and you can sleep anywhere. I often sleep in deer beds! OR is on Promotive.
Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite – Perhaps my most important piece of gear. This thing is awesome!! Last weekend I slept like a baby on rocks!
Enlightened Equipment Revelation Quilt: I replaced my bag with this and sleep in my fleece hoody or puffy jacket. Works awesome. You don’t need a 0-degree bag in early September. A 30-degree bag/quilt will work. Big Agnes and Therm-a-Rest offer quilt/pad systems together. Big Agnes is on Promotive.

Here’s a Video of my Sleep System:

8. Clothing

It’s HOT during the day, and cool, but not cold, at night. You don’t need super warm stuff.

Here’s What You Need:

Shorts – Nylon, with side pocket (I Keep my collapsable mug in my side pocket, and use it to drink from springs on the way up to the ridges.) I find nylon is the most durable. I currently wear Arcteryx Lefroy Shorts.

Shirt – Long Sleeve Synthetic or Merino Wool. I like synthetic. Long sleeves protect you from the sun. A sun hoody is good too as I can put the hood up over my hat when glassing.

Mid-Layer – Fleece or Merino Hoody

Puffy – Light down or synthetic hooded puffy jacket. Doesn’t need to be an expedition parka! Lightest level is fine. **Note – this last trip I combined the Fleece and Puffy into one jacket – one of the “Active Synthetic” jackets – and it worked great.

Rain Jacket – Light and also doubles as a wind breaker.

Gloves – Lightweight (You don’t need winter gloves!)

2 Pair Thick Wool Socks: You’ll wear one and keep another spare.

1 Pair Synthetic or Merino long underwear. I put these on at night under my shorts to sleep in and they keep me just warm enough in the evenings and mornings before I start moving.

1 Pair Synthetic Underwear. My favorites are Outdoor Research Echo Boxer Briefs.

Ball Cap – Again, it will be hot! You’ll need a hat.

Note: Don’t take any extra shirts or long johns, underwear. You won’t need them. Also, with a midweight or active synthetic hoody, you won’t need a warm beanie hat.

9. Footwear

You don’t need stiff-soled leather, gore-tex mountaineering boots! Trail runners work fine. I’m a fan of Hoka One Ones.

What I Wear:

Baselayer Top: Sitka Core Lightweight Hoody.

Underwear: Ourdoor Research Echo Boxers

Shorts: Arcteryx Lefroy Shorts

Mid-Layer/Puffy / Combo: Acteryx Proton LT Hoody

Hat: Outdoor Research Swift Cap in Multicam

Gloves: $2/pair acrylic stretch gloves you can get in a grocery story.

Socks: Patagonia Wool Mid-Weight

Rain Jacket: Outdoor Research Helium Jacket in Coyote

Shoes: Hoka One One Speedgoat 2’s

Questions? Email coach@mtntactical.com

You Might Also Like MTI’s Backcountry Big Game Hunting Plan

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Q&A 7.20.17

by SSD

KUDOS ON HUMILITY

“Last time I emailed you I was preparing to ship for Army BCT. I just got back from training a week ago. I just wanted to let you know I was by far one of the most physically prepared individuals throughout basic and AIT because of your programs.”

QUESTION

I’m an SF student here at SWCS in Ft. Bragg. I’ve recently gotten injured, severe stress fractures in both shins as the doctors put it. I’m on a no run/ruck profile for at least two months, so I figured I’d use this time to regain some strength I’ve lost over the pipeline by completing big 24 agin. Aside from that is there anything else you’d recommend? Especially to be able to maintain/ even still improve my running ability with my injury? Thanks for your time.

ANSWER

Cycling/spinning is about your only option. Step ups might help, but my guess is spinning would be best to try and improve running. Understand you’ll mostly improve at spinning, but there should be some transfer to your running.

– Rob

QUESTION

I’m currently going through SQT in the SEAL pipeline. I’m looking to take my fitness to another level and heard of Mtn tac through a friend. I was looking at the Greek hero program but wanted to get your opinion on what’s best for my schedule.

ANSWER

We just published (last week) the Pirates Series of training plans designed as day-to-day training for tactical athletes with water-based mission sets (USAF Special Tactics, SEALs, BORSTAR, etc.). These 4 plans deploy our Fluid Periodization methodology but also include pool work 1x/week – swimming, finning, etc.

These are what I’d recommend.

– Rob

QUESTION

Hey guys! I’m a kinda a fat overweight Sfc Medic getting ready to leave the ARMY and go into contracting with triple canopy or SOC. My knowledge and experience are what enable me to get these jobs. However, my spine is jacked from years of time under rucks, body armor and jumps.

I need to be fit, quick and Strong. The only real limitations I have is that back squats if I do them to heavy will hurt my back and I’m probably the most inflexible dude on earth.

Yes I have multiple bulging discs and hurniations however, I need to make money while the money is good. What can you recommend?

Cheers!

ANSWER

Start back with the Military On-Ramp Training Plan.

QUESTION

I just enlisted in the Army and got 18X. I have 13 Weeks ans I am trying to get into great shape. I am interested in your Ruck + SFAS program but it says that I needed to plan back 42 weeks. As I don’t have that much time what do you guys think I should do? I saw that there is an SF Qualification course as well, but it doesn’t seem as intensive.

Best,

ANSWER

Weeks Plan

1-5 Military On-Ramp Training Plan (you’ll skip weeks 6-7 in this plan)

7-13 Ruck-Based Selection Training Plan

Good luck!

– Rob

QUESTION

Hi Coach,

In your “Long and Easy” article about endurance training, you mentioned that MTI’s time standard for long, easy training is 4 hours. Why 4 hours? Does that mean our longest workout should slowly build up to 4 hours and no longer?

Thanks

ANSWER

One theory in the endurance world is that an athlete has developed “aerobic base” for a single mode when he/she can move for 4 hours in that mode at his/her easy pace based on heart rate – around 65-70% of Max.

Under our current methodology, we consider endurance training any mode 45-60+ minutes long. We go over 4 hours.

– Rob

QUESTION

Hello Rob,
I have been following your programs for a long time. I enjoy the challenge and just need some advice. What type of program do you recommend after the 8 week kettlebell circuit. I’m 45 and your circuits have kept me healthy but want to maintain current advances. I have a pt assessment at the end of July and want to keep my current strength. Advice??

Also should I take a couple of days off between programs? The kettle bell ends this week.

ANSWER

Options:

1) SF45 Alpha – designed for tactical athletes ages 45-55. Less impact, more endurance work.

2) Greek Hero Series – start with Hector. Full on day-to-day programming designed for SOF and those who aspire to that level of fitness. Concurrently train strength, work capacity, endurance (running, rucking), chassis integrity and Tactical Speed and Agility

3) Humility – bodyweight strength, dumbbell work capacity, loaded running in IBA

– Rob

QUESTION

Hi Rob!
I just purchased the Humility program and I am doing day session #2 Tomorrow.

I am looking for some clarity on the burpee ladder test.

Is it I must make the designated amount of burpees within that timeframe in order to pass that level?

So if I did 52 burpees in 4 minutes I would pass that level but it I could only do 85 burpees in 6 minutes I have not yet passed that level?

Burpees Total

Level Min per Min Burpees

1 0-1 10 10

2 1-2 12 22

3 2-3 14 36

4 3-4 16 52

5 4-5 18 70

6 5-6 20 90

7 6-7 22 112

8 7-8 24 136

ANSWER

Exactly.

Each minute you have 60 seconds to get the designated burpees for that level. So level one, sprint through 10 burpees, and rest the remainder of the 60 seconds.

Level 2, sprint through 12 burpees, rest the remainder of the 60 seconds.

You can see how terrible this will become. Haha.

– Rob

QUESTION

What would be a good plan for a sedentary female who has no real history of excercise?

ANSWER

None of our stuff is appropriate for someone who is seriously deconditioned.

– Rob

QUESTION

Hey rob I’ve been a Starting Strength Heavy lifter for sometime now but I’ve noticed turning 40 that my joints and back are constantly aching. I’m looking to begin a new direction for my training. Something helps keep decent Strength but also can maintain decent conditioning. I’m 40 5’8 and at 215 pounds. Thank you sir.

ANSWER

I’d recommend SF45 Alpha. “SF45” is an acronym for “Strength and Conditioning 45” and this programming is intended for athletes 40-55 years old. It’s what I’m doing – I’m 3 weeks from 49.

More on the plan HERE.

– Rob

FOLLOW UP

QUESTION

Thanks for the recommendation. I see your coming out with a B and C program as well. When I have completed C at that time will I just restart A and cycle through or move on to other things?

ANSWER

Kinda ….. the focus of our programming is to help athletes perform outside the gym. SF45 is a “base” fitness program, on top of which you’ll build sport specific fitness prior to events/seasons. For example, I’ll be dropping out of the SF45 programming soon to start our Backcountry Big Game Training Plan in preparation for bowhunting which starts Aug 15 here.

In general, the idea is to do base fitness programming – SF45 or Mountain Base – in the “space” between sport-specific train ups. So from a macro perpsective, your gym-based training revolved around your outdoor pursuits/seasons, etc.

What outdoor sports do you do? Any mountain sport trips planned?

– Rob

FOLLOW UP

QUESTION

I do have a Goruck event in September that I will be getting ready for closer to it. And January next year a deployment to Afghan. Other than that I do basic fishing camping and hiking with family. Big game is a goal for fall 2018. I still I still have a lot to learn in big game.

ANSWER

Directly prior to your Goruck Event, complete the appropriate Goruck plan (Challenge, Heavy, Selection), and prior to deployment, depending upon your base in Afghanistan, complete either the Afghanistan Pre-Deployment Plan(mountainous patrols) or the Urban Conflict Pre-Deployment Plan.

In between complete SF45 cycles or mountain base daily sessions/Greek Heroine Plans.

– Rob

FOLLOW UP

QUESTION

Hey thanks for the info from earlier. I’ve lost access to my fully equipped gym but I do have access to Kettlebells all ranges and sandbags 40,60,80. Body weight and pull up bar is good to go. Can I still do the Operator Hector series and SF45 or do I need to consider something else?

ANSWER

You’ll need a fully equipped gym for both Hector and SF45. Look at Sandbag Ethos or Humility. We also have three Dumbbell/Kettlebell only plans, Larry, Curly and Moe – more HERE..

QUESTION

I am looking into purchasing one of your workout plans. I’m in fairly decent shape about 5’11” 185lbs and 21 yrs old. I currently strength train 4 days a week and ruck about 3 mornings through the week. I also like to mix in a couple runs. I have time to do a morning and evening workout. Which program would you recommend for me to use? I am hoping to improve upon my total body strength while also continuing to improve my rucking/running performance. I’m all for something more intense that will keep me challenged. I have been looking at your Fortitude program, but I’m not sure if that is the best one you have for my situation. Please let me know.

Thanks,

ANSWER

Yes – start with Fortitude. It’s an awesome plan which has you lifting heavy in the gym, as well as running and rucking.

– Rob

QUESTION

I found your site via a general google search, I think it has everything I’m looking for. But wondering if you could confirm? Below is a quick snapshot of who I am and what I’m looking for:

Who I am:

39-year old male
Father of three young kids (7,5,2)
Work out 5-6 days a week, but it can be difficult keeping a regimented workout schedule w/ kids and work
Former military, still active with light upper body lifting, but lots of trail running, mtn biking, telemark skiing

What I am looking for:

I would love to create a year-round strength/conditioning program tailored to the seasonal sports
For example:
- Summer: I do 3 trail runs / week, each @ 8 – 12 miles with mtn biking in between
- Fall: I pare back mtn biking and running and want to get in shape for telemark skiing
- Winter: No running, just skiing on weekends (both lift-assisted and backcountry)
- Spring: pare back skiing, integrate running, prep for mtn biking
I would love to increase certain weight training in each season to accommodate weekend runs/skiing and prep for next season
- Example: No squats in summer w/ all the running and biking, but lots of squats in fall to get ready for skiing?
- Example: no squats Thurs/Fri so I’m rested for weekend skiing?

I think your online site has everything I need for the above? Thanks for your help –

ANSWER

Our Mountain “Base” programming is designed as day-to-day programming for all-around mountain athletes either in-season or between seasons. Our Greek Heroine plans represent our most recent evolution of this programming and concurrently train gym-based strength, work capacity, mountain endurance (running, uphill hiking under load), Chassis Integrity (our core training methodology).

But no programming can keep prepare you best for each mountain sport. So, directly

Directly prior to seasons, athletes need to drop into sport-specific cycles to prepare as sport-specifically as possible. You’ll see these on the site – our dryland ski, alpine climbing, Ultra Pre-Season and other plans.

An example for you would be Ultra Pre-Season in the Spring, Mountain Base Helen in the summer (2-3x days/week), Dryland Ski in the Fall, In-Season Ski during the Ski Season, etc.

Plans can be purchased individually or all accessed with Athlete’s Subscription.

– Rob

QUESTION

I will be climbing the Grand Teton this summer and wanted to know which training program you recommend. We are going with this company http://exumguides.com/ublminxportfolios/grand-classic/

Thanks

ANSWER

I built the Peak Bagger Training Plan (http://strongswiftdurable.com/shop/peak-bagger-training-plan/) specifically for climbs like the Grand Teton.

Have a great climb!

– Rob

FOLLOW UP

QUESTION

Do you think the Peak Bagger Plan would be good if I wanted to climb Mt. Rainier? Thanks

ANSWER

I’d prefer you used the Big Mountain Training Plan: http://strongswiftdurable.com/shop/big-mountain-training-program/

– Rob

FOLLOW UP

QUESTION

My fiance and I are doing a 14 day trek to Everest Base camp. I wanted to know if I should stick with the Big Mountain Training plan for that. I believe it is going to be mostly hiking slowly up the mountain, it will just be 7-8 hours on our feet per day. Thanks again.

ANSWER

Big Mountain is likely overkill for that. I’d recommend our Backpacking Pre-Season Training Plan.

– Rob

QUESTION

I am currently a member and have purchased a few plans. I need advice on what plan to purchase to really improve my Army pft run time. I am currently coming in at 15 min and I want to make small gradual improvements. I noticed that there is a running improvement plan, and i want to know if that is the best fit for me. I would like to have some professional advice on the topic as i have tried everything from increasing mileage to running sprints and have not really made any significant progress. I would like to purchase a plan, but before i do i would like a recommendation.

thank you.

ANSWER

I’d recommend the APFT Training Plan.

It includes specific training to improve the run.

– Rob

QUESTION ir,

Sir, I have the Ranger Program and I see that it is intended to be used 7 weeks before going to Ranger School. Will it still benefit me doing this, even though I am quite a long ways out from attending Ranger School? Thank you

ANSWER

There’s no hard in doing the Ranger School Training Plan now, and then again the 7 weeks directly before you go to school. Doing it now will give you a great “snapshot” of your fitness.

Click HERE for some of the feedback we’ve received on the plan.

– Rob

QUESTION

I’m seriously overweight, and not sure which program of yours to start with…

I’m 6’3″ and 42 years old. I was over 360 pounds, then lost down to 258, and after a couple of years, gained back up to over 300.

All of that said… Do you have a specific program that works for guys over 40, who have some lingering old injuries?

I’m noticing that recovery is harder than it used to be. I have only had two real injuries, back from when I was in the service. They both healed a long time ago, but at my current weight they are an issue. I dislocated my right ankle(i didn’t know that was a thing), and in a separate event, dislocated my left shoulder in a mountain bike accident. I am fully functional, but since hurting my shoulder, my pullups just sort of stopped. I never redeveloped the skill, but I used to do sets of one arm pullups back in the day when i weighed 200 pounds. My right ankle doesn’t feel stable when doing shuffling movements at my current weight. When I was around 200 pounds, it felt completely normal, though. The lightest weight I’ve been as an adult was 176 pounds, but I was running 10k 6-7 days per week at that point.

Hope to hear back.

Thanks,

ANSWER

We don’t currently have a specific training plan for seriously de-conditioned athletes.

From what we do have, I’d recommend you start with the simple APFT Training Plan.

This plan was built specifically to train guys for the Army’s PFT (2 mile run, 2 min push ups, 2 min sit ups). Why I like it for you to start is because we designed the plan so out of the gate you take the assessment and then use your assessment results for the follow-on progressions.

This way the plan automatically “scales” to the incoming fitness of the athlete. You may have to walk have the run, just get a handful of push ups and sit ups, but it doesn’t matter. The plan will “scale” to your initial results. Plus you re-asses 2x during the plan … so it continues to “tune” to your improving fitness and push you.

Also. Fix your diet. HERE are our day-to-day nutritional guidelines.

Finally. I’m 49 and men our age die all the time. Don’t be one of them. Everything starts with your health.

After the APFT Plan, move to the Military On-Ramp Training Plan.

– Rob

QUESTION

BLUF: Is it feasible to add your hypertrophy for skinny guys program to Crossfit/PFT work?

I am a skinny (5’11/145) military athlete with a heavy base in endurance and swimming. I currently maintain my fitness with Crossfit and leading the unfit members of my unit in basic USAF PT work. I am looking to build muscle mass as my size is becoming a limiting factor. Is it feasible to add your Skinny guy program to a 5 day/week out schedule? Or is another program needed?
More info, I work in a Non-Tactical unit, Lowest I have scored on a AF PFT is 97 and I typically exercise 5-days a week, comfortable with 2 a days.

Thank you for all that you do.

ANSWER

No. You’ll overtrain. Do the Hypertrophy Program alone.

– Rob

QUESTION

Good evening,

I am currently deployed in Afghanistan and was looking into following your TACP training program as I aspire to cross train. However I do not have access to a pool, any suggestions to replace those swims with?

Thank you.

ANSWER

Any cardio work will work. If you have a rower, row 5000m. Moderate pace.

– Rob

QUESTION

Did a quick search on the site and couldn’t find info on this, sorry if I missed it. I’ve purchased a few of the mountain athlete programs, and did a great job following the programming during mud/off seasons, but now that it’s summer I’m having some difficulty.

I’m starting in on the peak bagger program, and I work out in the mornings. I’ve noticed that it makes me too sore/tired to get outside for after-work mountain bike rides, hikes, etc. And weekend backpacking trips and hikes need to be cut way down to make sure I have enough down time to recover. So here’s my question: How are the athletes you train able to follow your programming while still getting out a few times per week to play, and enjoy the benefits of the training, without becoming overtrained/too tired to give it all in training? Is it just a matter of “suck it up and do it, wuss”, or do you recommend cutting down on the fun outings while following a training program?

For a specific example, I live in Gunnison/Crested Butte, CO area. Mountain biking is a way of life in the summer, and I try to get out on the trails a few times per week. Is there any way to do that while still using the peak bagger program to train for an August 14er trip where we’re going to bag several 14ers over the course of a long weekend?

Thanks in advance,

ANSWER

Our programming should make you perform better on the mountain, not negatively impact your performance because of soreness/fatigue.

Here I stopped training my mountain lab rats on Fridays because of this …. they wanted to be fresh for weekend adventure.

You specifically, you can strategically think about what mountain biking is doing for you when it comes to peak bagging, and what it isn’t. What it is doing for you is helping your uphill climbing ability. We’ve seen this anecdotally – biking has good transfer to hiking uphill – esp. unloaded or with a light pack like you’ll carry for a peak-bagging trip.

What it isn’t doing is building eccentric strength for the downhill. This is what the Leg Blasters do in the Peak Bagger Plan. Mountain Biking also isn’t training mid-section strength – which is what the sandbag getups in the plan hammer.

So, skip the step ups in the plan if your cycling lots, and try to work in the leg blaster and sandbag getup progression 2x, mid-week to keep you fresh for the hard weekend pushes.

– Rob

QUESTION

Hey there Rob! Hope all is well!

I had a quick question: I come from more of a powerlifting/ bodybuilder background in the last 10 years of training… I have thrown conditioning in the mix as well in the form of sprints, prowler work, some mid distance runs, etc.

Lately I have taken a liking to Spartan races. I have been doing fairly well actually, placing in the top 15 out of males in my age bracket. I just finished my first trifecta within 7 weeks– one of which was a half marathon in length through Montana (I’m from Wisconsin) the farthest I’ve ever run prior to this was a 5k and I managed to finish in the top 25% of participants and my last two races I have finished in the top 1&2% of participants in the open category.

I want to try to improve and see how far I can push myself, possibly start racing in the competitive waves, but with the caveat of not wanting to give up the size and strength I have. I’m not big by any means but the muscle and strength I do have has taken a long time to build and I don’t want to throw it away…I actually find my strength helps me immensely at obstacles where I see more of the endurance guys struggling. I still want to make strength, power, and hypertrophy part of my overall focus with an endurance component added in there with a higher level of work capacity. Basically an ultimate hybrid athlete.

Currently I have an almost 2.5x body weight Deadlift, 1.5x bw bench press and am just shy of a 2x bodyweight back squat— I’m sitting roughly at 170#. Any plans you would recommend right away for someone after my goals? Any guidance would be greatly appreciated.

Appreciate all you do man!

ANSWER

I’d recommend Valor.

This plan comes from our Tactical side and concurrently trains gym-based strength, work capacity, chassis integrity (our mid-section programming methodology) and speed-over ground endurance – for ruck running and running. For you I’d make one addition to the plan, a long easy to moderate run on the weekend – 8 miles weeks 1 &2, 10 miles weeks 3&4, 12 miles weeks 5-7.

– Rob

QUESTION

Finished hypertrophy for skinny guys recently it was great!

I’m a Park Ranger/LE so I can go from road patrol to backcountry patrol, SAR’s, wildfires it all changes day to day… want to increase my strength and endurance without losing the mass I just put on (putting on a little more mass wouldn’t be so bad either) I was thinking Humility or Greek Hero pack. Advice?

Thanks

ANSWER

With your rural mission set, you’d be considered a “green” tactical athlete under the MTI classification – same as military SOF – Green Berets, and Wildland Fire/Rescue.

Pivot to the Greek Hero Plans – start with Hector.

– Rob

QUESTION

Sir/Ma’am,

I will be racing next summer in a multi day, self sustained race across the Gobi Desert. I’ve ran ultra marathons and I ruck frequently since I’m in the military. I’m stuck deciding between your Denali training plan and the peak bagger plan.

The race is broken down roughly into four days of ~26mi, one day ~50mi, then final day is ~10mi. The pack I’ll be carrying will contain ~20-25# of supplies, over terrain ranging from dunes, to hilly plains, and some steeper spots.

Equipment wise, I have access to barbells, kettlebells, free weights, stair climbers, everything but a tire to drag, although I’m going to order a sled.

Can you recommend either of those plans or another one? Thanks.

ANSWER

I’d recommend the 50-Mile Ultra Training Plan. The bulk of your training should be trail running. Do the running in the plan with your pack – 25#.

– Rob

QUESTION

I am a National Guardsman an I’m looking to start one of your programs but I can’t decide which one. My top goal coming home is gaining strength. I’ve always been more endurance centric and on top of doing only high rep calisthenics/running for the past 6 months, I feel very weak right now. However I would like to maintain my conditioning and running ability. My day job is a career firefighter at a rather busy Fire Department. So I need both strength and conditioning but again I really need to get my strength up. What plan would you recommend for me?

Thank you,

ANSWER

I’d recommend you start with a focused strength cycle, then transition into our day-to-day programming for Urban Fire/Rescue.

Strength? Do Big 24 Strength.

Day-to-Day? Big Cat Packet of training plans for Urban FIre Rescue. Start with Jaguar.

– Rob

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Backwards Sandbag Drag

by SSD

Get down on all fours (hands and feet) with sandbag in front of you. Grab sandbag with right hand, drag it toward you as far as possilbe. Move back on all fours, grab bag with left hand and drag it towards you as far as possible. Move back on all fours.

1x Rep = 1x Pull with Both Arms, so 8x Backwards Sandbag Drag = 8 Pulls with the Right Arm and 8 Pulls with the Left Arm, 16 Pulls total.

Recommended Loading: 40# for women, 60# for men.

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Packet Focus: Ranger School Training Packet

by SSD

By Rob Shaul

Ranger School is a right of passage and badge of professional excellence for Infantry.

The fitness programming to prepare athletes for Ranger School has two distinct missions:

(1) Prepare athletes for the intensity and specific physical gates of RAP week.

(2) Prepare athletes’ physical and mental stamina, endurance, durability and resiliency for the long “grind” during the multiple Ranger School phases, afterward.

The six training plans contained within the Ranger School Training Packet detail 43 weeks (approx 9.5 months) of training with these two missions at the forefront.

The first 5 training plans introduce athletes to the intensity of MTI programming and build the foundation fitness, durability and resiliency.

You’ll begin with the MTI Military On-Ramp Training Plan which will introduce you to the intensity and scope of MTI programming and lay the base for the following programming.

The next four plans in the packet, Humility, Fortitude, Valor, and Gratitude come from our Virtue Series of training plans which were originally deployed as day-to-day fitness for SOF and have since evolved and been updated to represent the latest elements of MTI’s programming approach for military athletes.

These four training plans are potent tools which work progressively together to build your physical and mental fitness, durability and resiliency moving toward Ranger School.

Directly before Ranger School, you’ll complete the Ranger School Training Plan which is laser-focused on preparing you to pass the gates during RAP week, including the Ranger PFT and 12-mile ruck, and build your endurance/stamina for the months at Ranger School that follow. We’re on Version 3 of this plan – just updated in July 2017.

This packet is organized so that each plan will build fitness for the next. The purpose is to build sufficient fitness to complete Ranger School regardless of the athlete’s incoming fitness level.

The six plans, in the order you’ll complete them:

(1) Military On-Ramp – Bodyweight Strength, Gym-Based Strength, sprint interval work capacity, ruck runs with increasing weight and unloaded running intervals. The place to start with MTI Programming for Military Athletes. 5 day/week training plan.

(2) Humility – Limited Equipment Training Plan with slight endurance emphasis. Bodyweight strength endurance and dumbbell strength progression. Loaded (25# or IBA) running and unloaded running. Chassis Integrity work. Humility has a “hardening” effect on athletes who complete it. 5 day/week training plan.

(3) Fortitude – Heavy gym-based strength, unloaded running and ruck running. Unloaded running and rucking intervals, gym-based Strength, Work Capacity, and Chassis Integrity. 5 day/week training plan.

(4) Valor– Work capacity and speed over ground focused training plan which continues gym-based strength work and Chassis Integrity Development. 5 day/week training plan.

(5) Gratitude – Strong endurance and stamina emphasis. Heavy, barbell-focused strength work. Endurance deploys gym-based endurance, unloaded running, and ruck running. Bumps up to 6 days/week.

(6) Ranger School Training Plan – Specific training for Ranger School PFT, Running, Rucking, and Work Capacity.

It’s very important you complete the final, Ranger School Training Plan the 8 weeks directly before you report for reporting. This plan includes a taper, so there’s no need to take rest week after it’s completion.

COMMON QUESTIONS

What equipment is required?
Click the individual training plan links below to find the specific equipment requirements for each training plan. In general, Humility and the final Ranger School Training Plan are limited equipment training plans. Fortitude, Valor, and Gratitude require a fully-equipped functional fitness gym: Fully Equipped Functional Fitness Gym including barbells, racks, bumper plates, sandbags (40# for women, 60# for men), Dumbbells and/or kettlebells, plyo boxes, etc.

All the training plans include rucking, so you’ll need a ruck and up to 65# of filler/load. Other equipment includes a stopwatch and foam roller.

Optionial: gps watch for measuring running and rucking distance.

Again, click the individual training plans below to see the required equipment for each:

Who is this plan appropriate for?
Military athletes attending Ranger School in the next 6-12 months.

What if I don’t have 42 weeks before attending Ranger School?
It’s important you begin this programming with the Military On-Ramp Training Plan and finish with the Ranger School Training Plan directly before Ranger School – this is 14 weeks of training. Fill in the time you have between with first Humility, then Fortitude, then Valor, etc. We can help with specific guidance and planning. Please email coach@mtntactical.com.

How long will I have access to these training plans?
Forever, or as long as MTI is in business, whichever comes first. You will also get access to any updates we make to the training plans.

Can I see sample training?
To see/experience the first week of programming for each of these training plans click on the individual training plans above, and then click the “Sample Training” tab to see the entire first week of programming.

I don’t want the entire packet of plans. Can I purchase the plans individually?
Yes. Click the plan links above to purchase individually.

What if I miss a day?
Begin where you left off when you return to training. This program is progressed – each session builds upon the prior session – so don’t skip a session or skip around. Follow the training sessions in order, regardless.

Where do I find unfamiliar exercises?
See our Exercise Library HERE. The Run/Ruck Calculator is listed as an exercise.

What about nutrition?
See our Nutritional Guidelines HERE.

How do I access the plan? Pdf? Online?
Plan access is online, via username and password.

Can I print out sessions to take to the gym?
Yes – you can print a week of programming at a time

More Questions? Email coach@mtntactical.com

The price for this packet of plans, $209, represents a 30% savings over the combined price of the individual plans.

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Arete 7.13.17

by SSD

Military
Ex-CIA contractor says Pakistan’s leaders helped him escape murder charges, Intel News
Islamic State fights the Taliban, Afghan government-backed locals in Tora Bora Mountains, Long War Journal
Qassem Soleimani boasts of Tehran’s expanded footprint throughout Middle East, Long War Journal
China’s First Overseas Military Base, The Atlantic
Israel’s Forthcoming Security Dilemma, War on the Rocks
Events that led to arrest of Army soldier on terrorism charges, Military Times

Homeland Security/Terrorism
The Ugly Aftermath of a Cyberattack, NY Times
Syrian war monitor reports death of ISIS leader but U.S. can’t confirm, In Homeland Security
US-Mexico Border Tunnels Evolve to Defy Security Measures, In Homeland Security
Communication in times of crisis, Homeland Security Newswire
Predicting Natural Disasters, Homeland Security News Wire

First Responder
Report: Police pursuits are causing unnecessary deaths and injuries, Police One
Becoming a Cop . . . It Seemed Like a Good Idea at the Time, Law Enforcement Today
Characterising resource use and potential inefficiencies during large-fire suppression in the western US, International Journal of Wildland Fire
Ohio Sheriff Refuses to Equip Deputies with Narcan, Police Mag
The 9 Most Dangerous Things Firefighters Do, Backstep Firefighter

Mountain
Creative Camping: Where To Sleep When There’s Not A Site, Gear Junkie
Rural Indonesia Is the Next Great Climber’s Paradise, Outside Magazine
Serious WTF: 25 years of Matchstick Productions’ best ski crashes, Freeskier
(Video) Kiteboarder Hits Humpback Whale, The Adventure Blog
Climbing Trip Tune-Up with Neil Gresham, Training Beta

Gear
The Complete History of the AR-15, SWJ
The Case for Size-Specific Mountain Bikes, Outside Magazine
U.S. Marshals Service – Expired Body Armor, Inconsistent Training Raises Risks For Marshals, Soldier Systems
27 Eastern Mountain Sports stores slated to close, syracuse.com
Army looks to replace the Squad Automatic Weapon, Army Times

Fitness/Nutrition
This Is Your Brain on Exercise, Outside Magazine
Chest Strap Vs Wristband Heart Rate Monitors Breaking Muscle
No Sugar Or No Fat? No Thanks, Breaking Muscle
Coconut Oil: Health Food or Heart Killer? T-Nation
Can poor sleep lead to Alzheimer’s? CNN.com
After Knee Surgery, Try Anti-Gravity Treadmill, Science Daily
Combating Chronic Kidney Disease With Exercise, Science Daily