Ruck Based Selection (SFAS) Training Plan V6

$99.00

  • Intense, 8-Week Training Plan sport-specifically designed to prepare athletes for the fitness demands of SFAS (Green Beret Selection) and similar ruck-based selection courses which include timed rucking events, calisthenic-based “smokers,” grip strength, team events etc. It includes a taper into selection and is designed to be completed the 8 weeks directly before selection.
  • This is the latest Version, Version 6, designed in December 2022.
  • One MTI’s most successful selection training plans. Read Testimonials Here
  • This training plan is one of the 250+ plans included with an Athlete’s Subscription

Description

The following is a sport-specific 8-week program is specifically designed to prepare athletes for the SFAS (Green Beret) and similar Ruck Based Selection Courses. The plan includes a 2-week taper, and is designed to be completed the 8 weeks directly prior to your course start week.

We built the first Ruck Based Selection Training Plan (RBSTP) in 2009 and multiple soldiers have use it successfully for SFAS. This, Version 6, is the latest version, updated December 2022.

***************** CAUTION ****************

This is a very intense, 6-day a week, often 2x/day training program with high levels of volume and stress. Be safe and smart about your training as you work through the program and don’t be afraid to cut down sessions, or if necessary take an extra rest day if needed.

PROGRAM DESCRIPTION

This program gets progressively harder each week, until week 7, when the training tapers down into the start of selection. Don’t skip ahead!! The plan is designed to build upon itself. If you have to miss a training day, start up back where you left off.

This is a 6 day/week training program with many 2-a-Day training sessions.
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 SFAS and similar selection courses – specifically rucking, running, calesthenic-based “smokers,” grip strength, etc. You’ll ruck 2 days/week and run 3 days/week. It also includes:
– Testing and progressive training for the current SFAS PFT (Hand Release Arms Extended Push Ups, Strict Pull Ups, 2-Mile Run)
– Extended, mulit-modal work capacity events
– Grip strength training.
– Shoulder strength endurance work
– Sandbag Getups for work capacity, mental toughness, and core strength
– Loaded runs and carries
– Intense core, mobility, and stabilzer strength training for durability

WEEKLY SCHEDULE

The plan includes 48 Total Training Sessions. It is intended that you’ll train Monday – Saturday, and take Sunday’s off. Sessions 1, 7, 13, 19, 25, 31, 37, and 43, are Mondays and the beginning of each training week.

Here is the general training Schedule for weeks 2-8:
Monday: AM – PFT Work & PM – Heavy Ruck
Tuesday: AM – Strength/Core
Wednesday: AM – Work Capacity & PM – Run or Work Cap
Thursday: AM – Run or Work Cap
Friday: AM – Work Cap or Rest
Saturday: AM – Long Ruck

Saturday Long Rucks
You’ll work up to 18 miles at 60# Ruck plus a 10# rubber rifle, sledge hammer or dumbbell.

Assessments
The plan includes 5 specific assessments, and follow-on progressions. You’ll take these assessments multiple times over the 8 weeks:

  1. SFAS PFT –  Max Hand Release Arms Extended Push Ups (2 minutes), Max Pull ups and 2 Mile Run
  2. 2 Part Work Cap Assessment – 10 min Sandbag Getups @ 80# for reps, Interval 25m Shuttles for Reps
  3. 10 Mile Heavy Ruck for Time – 60# Ruck, 10lb Rubber Rifle or Sledge Hammer, Full Cammies/Boots, Helmet
  4. 6 Mile Run for Time, shorts and t-shirt
  5. Multi Modal Work Cap for Time

EXERCISE PROGRESSIONS

During this train-up every number of repetitions you perform is based on the number of repetitions you completed during your latest SFAS PFT , 25m 60/60 Shuttle Interval for reps, and 10 min Sandbag Getups @ 80# for Reps.

The programming methodology utilizes your most recent assessment scores to determine the reps/intensity of the progressions. In this way the plan automatically “scales” to your incoming fitness, and continues to push you as your fitness improves.

RUN/RUCK INVERVAL CALCULATORS

The training plan includes scaled paces for your runs, and heavy rucks. These paces are based on your assessment results from the heavy ruck, 2-mile APFT run, and 6-mile run. You’ll take these assessments 3 times throughout the plan. Use your latest assessment results for the subsequent training sessions.

We use interval training to train your run and rucking fitness. The interval distances are shorter, and pace faster than your latest assessment pace.

HEAVY RUCK RUCK, IBA RUN, RUN, UNIFORMS

  • 10 Mile Heavy Ruck Assessment and 2-Mile Repeats – Full cammies, boots, helmet, 10 pound rubber rifle, sledge hammer, or dumbbell, 60# ruck plus water
  • 6-Mile Run, 2-Mile Run and their interval repeats – Shorts, t-shirt, sneakers
  • Long Saturday Rucks – Full cammies, boots, helmet, 10 pound rubber rifle, sledge hammer, or dumbbell, 60# ruck plus water

RUCKING ADVICE

Use this training plan to get your rucking dialed – including boots, pack loading (weight high instead of low seems to help), pacing, nutrition, and hydration dialed. Ruck in the same boots you’ll take to selection. Refuel the same way you’ll refuel at selection, etc. One tip for the Heavy Rucks – run the entire time if possible (some can). If not,  – Run 3 Minutes, Walk 1-3 Minutes can help you keep on pace. Also, work to increase the frequency of short strides to increase speed, rather than stretching out your stride.

REQUIRED EQUIPMENT

What equipment is needed to complete this program?

  • Stop Watch with Repeating Countdown Timer – Timex Ironman is best.
  • 60 and 80# Sandbags
  • ALICE Ruck or same ruck you will use at selection, 60# of filler, 10# Rubber Rifle (No rifle? Use a 10 lb sledge hammer or a 10# dumbbell)
  • Pair of 25# Dumbbells
  • Pull up Bar
  • Known course distances for 10 miles, 2 miles, 6 miles, 3 miles and 1 mile for your run and ruck assessments and intervals.
  • Repeating countdown interval timer – smartphone application will work
  • Highly Recommended – GPS Watch for your long Saturday rucks

COMMON QUESTIONS

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.

What if I have less then 8 weeks before I start the Selection Course?
Still start at the beginning of this training plan anyway. Don’t skip ahead.

What if I can’t handle the training volume at first?
Building stamina and reslience is a key training goal of this plan, and physical and mental stamina is also key to completing the Selection course. If you can’t handle the training volume at first, its better to cut training sessions short, rather than take unscheduled rest days.

What if I can’t make the prescribed reps for the bodyweight exercises, or the prescribed interval times for the rucks or runs?
Do your best, and be sure to do the total number of rounds, even if you can’t make the reps or the time. Don’t quit.

How do you count reps for Sandbag Getups and 25m Shuttle Intervals?
Sandbag Getups – The prescribed rep count is total reps, so 50x Sandbag Getups at 60# sandbag = 50x total reps, 25x each shoulder. 25m Shuttle Intervals – Every length = 1 rep. So each round trip = 2x reps. Only full lengths count.

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.

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

DISCLAIMER
Before beginning any exercise program, consult with your physician to ensure that you are in proper health. Physical training contains inherent risks including, but not limited to, muscle strains, tears, physical and bodily injury up to and including death. This training program is not meant to provide medical advice; you should obtain medical advice from your private health care practitioner. If you are unable to assume these risks then you should not engage in this training program. No liability is assumed by Mountain Tactical Institute, Inc, its owners or employees, and you train at your own risk. Mountain Tactical Institute makes no warranty, express or implied, of any kind in connection with this training program.

Required Equipment


  • Stop Watch with Repeating Countdown Timer – Timex Ironman is best.

  • 40, 60 and 80# Sandbags

  • ALICE Ruck or same ruck you will use at selection, 60# of filler, 10# Rubber Rifle (No rifle? Use a 10 lb sledge hammer or a 10# dumbbell)

  • Pair of 25# Dumbbells

  • Pull up Bar

  • Highly Recommended – GPS-enabled Stop Watch with repeating countdown timer (Garmin Forerunner 10 is recommended ) A GPS enabled watch will make measuring run and ruck distances much easier.

Sample Training

Below is the First Week from this Training Plan:

MONDAY
SESSION 1
Obj: SFAS Gate PFT No. 1

Warm up:

4 Rounds
10x Squats
5x Hand Release Arms Extended Push Up
Run 50m
Instep Stretch
Lat + Pec Stretch

Training: 

(1) 2 Minute Max Rep Hand Release Arms Extended Push Up

** Rest 5 Minutes

(2) Max Rep Strict, Dead Hang Pull Ups

*** Rest 5 Minutes

(3) 2-Mile Run for Time

RECORD RESULTS

Comments:  SFAS Cadre are very exacting on push up and pull up form. Minimum pull ups required is 6, strict pull ups for a full dead hang, chest to bar, with a short pause at top. Dead hang = full and complete elbow and shoulder extension. For the push ups - ensure the up position is full elbow lock out - don't risk it. For today's assessment and all the following progressions and test, complete the push ups and pull ups to SFAS standards. No shortcuts!

******************************

 

TUESDAY
SESSION 2
Obj: 6-Mile Run Assessment

Warm up:

4 Rounds
10x Squats
5x Hand Release Arms Extended Push Up
Run 50m
Instep Stretch
Lat + Pec Stretch

Training:

(1) Run 6 Miles for Time

RECORD FINISH TIME

******************************

 

WEDNESDAY
SESSION 3
Obj: Shuttle Sprint, Chassis Integrity Assessments

Warm Up:

4 Rounds
10x Squats
5x Hand Release Arms Extended Push Up
Run 50m
Instep Stretch
Lat + Pec Stretch

Training:

(1) 4 Rounds
60 Second 25m Shuttle, for reps
60 Second Rest

Set up two cones, 25 meters apart. On "go" sprint back and forth between the two cones, as fast as possible. One foot must cross the line at each cone. Each 25 meter length counts as 1 rep. Only full 25 meter lengths count. 

RECORD TOTAL REPS

(2) 10-Minute Sandbag Sandbag Getup For Reps @ 80# Sandbag.

Go hard and alternate shoulders as needed. Each time you stand counts as 1 Rep.

RECORD TOTAL REPS

(3) Foam Roll Legs, Low Back

******************************

 

THURSDAY
SESSION 4
Obj: Work Capacity Assessment

Warm Up:

4 Rounds
10x Squats
5x Hand Release Arms Extended Push Up
Run 50m
Instep Stretch
Lat + Pec Stretch

Training: 

(1) 8 Rounds for Time
5x Renegade Man Makers @ 25# Dumbbells
10x Sandbag Back Squat @ 80# Sandbag
100 Yard Shuttle with Sandbag (Down 25 yards, Back  25 yards, Down 25 yards, Back 25 yards)
15x Sit Ups

RECORD FINISH TIME

(2) Foam Roll Legs, Low Back

******************************

 

FRIDAY
SESSION 5
Obj: Rest Day

Total Rest

******************************

 

SATURDAY
SESSION 6
Obj: Ruck Assessment

Warm Up:

4 Rounds
10x Squats
5x Hand Release Arms Extended Push Up
Run 50m
Instep Stretch
Lat + Pec Stretch

Training: 

(1) 10 Mile Ruck for Time, Flat Course. 

Load = 60# Ruck + 10# rubber rifle, sledge hammer or dumbbell.

RECORD FINISH TIME

(2) Foam Roll Legs, Low Back

Show More

1)  Mission Direct

Gym numbers mean nothing. All that matters is mission performance. 

To this end, MTI’s fitness solutions and programming are not boxed in by convention, tradition, orthodoxy, public opinion or any other artificial constraint driven by inside or outside forces.

We begin with the raw fitness demands of the mission and build a fitness solution which directly prepares the athlete for those demands.

 

2) Fitness Solutions Built from the Ground Up

MTI’s programming is not “re-tread” bodybuilding, football, CrossFit, kettlebell, strength or general fitness programming. We’ve built our fitness programming for mountain and tactical athletes from the ground up.

The Fluid Periodization methodology we deploy to concurrently train multiple fitness attributes is completely original and has continued to evolve and improve over the years.

Our mid-section training methodology, Chassis Integrity, is also original, as is our endurance programming, 7 strength training progressions, tactical agility, and work capacity programming.

Our mountain sports pre-season training plans, tactical PFT, selection, school, course, and fitness improvement training plans across military, LE and Fire Rescue are MTI-developed, tested and athlete-proven.

Over the years hundreds of athletes and coaches have taken our advanced programming and unit fitness leader programming courses and MTI is widely recognized within the mountain and tactical professions and fitness media as a thought leader in fitness programming for military and tactical athletes.

 

3) The MTI Method

→ Research: MTI begins program design with extensive research of the fitness demands of the mission, sport or event, identifies the exercises and progressions which sport-specifically meet those demands, chose end-of-cycle goals, and program backward to design the training plan.

→ Deploy & Assess: We deploy the training plan “Lab Rats” at our Wyoming facility. Training session and cycle issues are identified and fixed as we work through the training plan. Post cycle we assess the programming’s effectiveness and efficiency. We keep the stuff that works, and fix or toss the stuff that doesn’t.

→ Publish & Assess Again: Plan is published for purchase as an individual training plan and made available to our subscribers. Feedback/results are assessed.

→ Iterate: We take what we learn from lab rats and athletes, re-visit, update and improve already published training plans. Several of our individual training plans are on their 4th or 5th version.

 

4) Mission-Direct Research

MTI exists to “Improve Mountain and Tactical Athletes mission performance and keep them safe.” To that end, we have developed a unique research methodology aimed at identifying real world areas of improvement and identifying immediately deployable mission-direct solutions. Click HERE to learn more about MTI’s Mission-Direct Research methodology, and Here to read about just few of our research efforts.

5) Field Proven

Our stuff works. Weekly we receive unsolicited reviews of our programming and testimonials to its effectiveness.

 

6) Programming Breadth

MTI’s library of 200+ sport-specific fitness plans for mountain and tactical athletes is unmatched. Resources range from specific programming for tactical special forces selections, to specific plans for climbing Rainier and Denali, to general fitness solutions such as running improvement, to post-rehab from injury.

Over the past decade, MTI has partnered with hundreds of athletes throughout their individual mountain and tactical careers, and provided fitness solutions as they face new mountain objectives, tactical schools, selections, PFTs and deployments, and came back from injury.

 

7) Worldwide Influence

Our work is not limited to US Athletes.

We’ve developed selection-specific training plans for Canadian, UK, Australian and German Special Forces Selections and worked with individual military personnel from Scandinavia, South, and Central America.

Canadian, Australian, UK and western European law enforcement and fire/rescue athletes have used MTI programming for mission-direct fitness.

On the mountain side, Alpinists from Japan to Slovakia have consulted with MTI and used MTI’s programming to prepare for mountain objectives.

 

8) Mission Performance beyond Fitness

MTI’s exists is to improve Mission Performance for mountain and tactical athletes and keep them safe. 

This focus on “mission direct” solutions, enhancements and improvements drives our work and research and extends beyond fitness solutions to include training, leadership, gear, team culture, and safety. 

Fitness is just one area of our work.

Our non-fitness research has included tactical cultures, combat uniforms, and gore-tex performance, and effect of stress on marksmanship.

Our work on defining what it means to be a Quiet Professional has had penetrating influence and driven healthy conversations with both mountain and tactical professionals.

 

9) Direct, Honest, Clear Answers

Since 2007 we’ve taken and answered dozens of questions weekly from mountain and tactical athletes. We’ve saved these individual Q&A’s and now thousands are archived on our site.

We’re not salesmen, and our answers are noted for their directness, honesty, and clarity. Our stuff isn’t for everyone. If we can help, we’ll let you know. If we can’t, we’ll let you know that, too.

– Rob Shaul, Founder

 

All of the Above is Backed Up By Our Promise: Our Stuff Works. Guaranteed.

Our Stuff Works. Guaranteed.

By Rob Shaul

I received notes frequently from athletes hesitant to purchase a subscription or training plans asking me to sell them on why they should make the purchase.

While I understand the question, I’m not a salesman – so I can’t put a hard sale on anyone for our programming.

I can tell them the process we go through to design our programming.

We begin with extensive research on the fitness demands of the event, identify the exercises and progressions which sport specifically meet those demands, chose end-of-cycle goals, and program backward to design the plan.

Then we test the cycle on ourselves and our lab rats here in Wyoming. We document, note what works and doesn’t work, re-assess, and make changes and modifications.

Then we publish the programming in the form of one of our plans or as part of our subscription daily training sessions for tactical and mountain athletes.
We don’t stop there – our daily programming is the “tip of the spear” for our programming evolution. We use these sessions to learn and make continuous improvement.

As we learn more and improve, we go back, and update the sport-specific training plans on the website. For example, we’re currently on Version 5 of our Ruck Based Selection Training Plan and Version 3 of our Dryland Ski Training Plan and Version 4 of our Big Game Back Country Hunting Training Plan.

We understand our programing isn’t cheap, but we believe it’s a great value. The $79 for the Ruck Based Selection Training Plan, and $39 for the Dryland Ski Training Plan reflect the, research, work, innovative theory, iteration, testing and feedback we’ve put in and received to make these plans effective.

All that matters for us is outside performance, and we feel strongly that Our Stuff Works in the real world.

Here’s our guarantee:

1) Individual Training Plan Purchase:
If you purchase an individual training plan, follow it as prescribed before your season/event/pft/selection, and if you don’t feel you were physically ready for your season/event/pft/selection, and/or didn’t see dramatic improvements in your early season performance, we’ll refund your money, no questions asked.

2) Athlete’s Subscription
If you purchase an Athletes’ Subscription, follow the training sessions as prescribed, and are not satisfied with the quality of the programming, notify us within 30 days of purchase, and we’ll refund your money, no questions asked.

Questions?
Email: rob@mtntactical.com

COMMON QUESTIONS:

Do you have any reviews or testimonials from athletes who have used your Athlete’s Subscription
Yes. Click HERE.

Is it true you guarantee your stuff works?
Yes. If you purchase an Athletes’ Subscription, follow the training sessions as prescribed, and are not satisfied with the quality of the programming, notify us within 30 days of purchase, and we’ll refund your money, no questions asked.

How is MTI programming different than CrossFit?
This is a common question. Read our answer HERE.

You have a lot of competitors. Why should I choose MTI?
MTI is driven to improve mountain and tactical athletes’ mission performance and keep them safe. This emphasis and focus on mission performance sets us apart. Read about more that sets us apart HERE.

If I purchase a plan or subscription, how do I access the programming?
All of our plans are online, accessible via username and password.
You can log in through our →Website  or Mobile App →IOS and Android.

Do you have downloadable .pdf’s of the training plans?
No. But you can print the programming, by week, from your browser. You access individual training plans online via a username and password.

Do you have a mobile app?
Yes, we do. Available for IOS and Android.

What is the difference between purchasing an individual training plan, packet of plans or an Athlete’s Subscription?

  • Plan – Like purchasing the DVD of the first Star Wars movie. You own it forever, including any updates we make to the plan.
  • Packet – Like purchasing the DVD’s of all the Star Wars movies. You own them forever, including any updates we make to the plans.
  • Athlete’s Subscription – Like subscribing to Netflix. You get access to all 200+ plan in our library, but lose access if you unsubscribe.

If I purchase an Athletes Subscription Can I cancel on my own, anytime?
Yes.

Do I have to contact MTI to cancel or can I do it myself?
You can do it yourself. Instructions HERE.

If I purchase a subscription and have questions about where to start or what plans(s) to use for my goals, will you help?
Yes. We answer dozens of training questions from athletes weekly. Email coach@mtntactical.com.

If you add new plans or update existing plans after I subscribe will I have access to them?
Yes. We are continuously adding training plans and packets (2-5/month) and updating plans. With your subscription you’ll have access to all new plans, new courses and plan updates.

What Equipment is Required?
Click the “Required Equipment” tab to find out what equipment is required for the specific plan you are interested in.

Where do I find unfamiliar exercises?
See our Exercise Library HERE. The Run and Ruck Calculators are listed as exercises.

What about nutrition?
See our Nutritional Guidelines HERE.

Can I see sample training?
Click the “Sample Training” tab to see the entire first week of programming. You are encouraged to do it before purchasing.

What if I have more questions?
Email rob@mtntactical.com

Testimonials




4/2/23
I just saw a post on your account about a dude who used the Ruck Based Selection program to pass SFAS. It’s been like four years since I got selected but I just wanted to basically say “ditto.” I did two cycles of the program before selection and finished in the top 10% of every ruck and top 5% of every run. I tell every single dude who asks me for selection training advice to run your Ruck Based Selection program. Thanks for putting out great stuff, and God bless man!
****************





4/1/23


Just got back from SFAS selection, followed your Ruck Based assessment program and felt great physically. I appreciate the time and effort you put in to updating the programs to reflect the current standards of selection as they update. My only change that I would recommend would be the addition of heavy squats or yoke carries. The same bag works great for combat chassis, but the weight in the last week of SFAS is upwards of #135+ for long.
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2/5/23
Just selected at SFAS after using your RBSTPv5 (changed to 6 my last week or 2 before reporting). I felt physically prepared for all that was thrown at me, especially in team week.Been a subscriber for nearly 2 years with no plans of stopping. Looking forward to continuing to work with you as I work through the pipeline/down the line.
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11/24/22
Recently I successfully completed SFAS, and I just wanted to take a moment to thank you in helping make that dream a reality. Your programming has been a critical piece of every step of the journey. Because of it, I not only survived, but thrived all the way through. Thank you again!






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9/19/22

Just got selected after following your ruck based selection plan. I felt more physically prepared than anyone else in my class. I’m not an exceptional athlete, but I finished top 15% in all the gate week events and I finished 5th in the trek. So this plan absolutely works and I’ll recommend it to everyone I know who’s looking at SFAS. I’ve heard a lot of people criticize the rucking volume you program, but that is what helped set me apart in a competitive class (51 selected out of 385).



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6/1/22

I wanted to reach out and thank you all for the exceptional training plans. I recently completed SFAS and am thankful to say I was selected. I followed a handful of training plans with the lead up time I had, including Humility, Fortitude, Valor and the Ruck-based plan. I think they all prepared me well with a base of strength and thought the Ruck-based plan did a tremendous job. I finished in the top 10 in all of our rucks and felt very comfortable under the weight for land nav week as well. Also, I found the sandbag work to be very beneficial and had direct correlation to success within a couple events throughout SFAS.



****************


"Wanted to drop a line and say I just got back from SFAS and was selected. Thanks for the focused training plan, it made my job easier and I just had to focus on completing the exercises. I’m a huge fan of MTI and will tell others about it if they ask for any type of military programming."


****************


"I followed your advice, and picked up Fortitude for a few weeks. I got back from Afghanistan a few weeks ago and finished the Ruck Based Selection Program in Albuquerque, NM (5300’). I went to assessment and selection for the Special Operations Squadron last week, and got the job! Your program worked as advertised, and I know I wouldn’t have been successful without it. Thanks again!"


****************


"Hey Rob I wanted to let you know I was selected and that your train up was great. Not only I but several very good athletes there used this program and it carried over well. I have roughly 4 to six months before I’ll start the Q course any suggestions on what programs to use between now and then with all of that time would be greatly appreciated. Thanks again!"


****************


"Big thanks on your ruck based selection packet. Myself and two buddies used it to train up for SFAS, and all of us were selected. We all concurred that we were very prepared for the time under load as a result of your training plan. The only thing we noticed was that our pushups seemed to suffer during the actual Ruck Based Selection Plan, we did identify this 4 weeks out and supplemented additional pushups as a result."


****************


"I used your ruck based selection plan v5 and reached all of my goals. Thanks for the great training plan. You are the man!"


****************


"I want to start off by saying thank you. Your Ruck Based Selection Program is an excellent training regimen. I attended SFAS last month and was selected! Your Ruck Based Selection Program helped immensely. I felt more than adequately prepared for the rigors of SFAS.
I know the MTI team is always modifying their training programs and looking for ways to improve. I am by no means an expert in physical fitness but I do have a few layman's comments that may help out in future versions of the Ruck Based Selection Program.1. After the first two weeks of the program I cut out the IBA runs altogether. I personally felt that I needed more recovery time during the program and to my knowledge there are no IBA runs during selection itself. I am sure you have good reasons for including loaded runs during the program, but I felt better prepared to conduct the rucks and unloaded runs after cutting out the IBA runs. After going through selection I feel like this was the right call in my case.2. Prior to SFAS I felt like I was not getting enough APFT and distance running work. This fear turned out to be unfounded as I ended up scoring 300 on the SFAS APFT and ran the fastest 2-mile of my career!3. The sandbag-based work capacity events were absolutely perfect training for Team Week at SFAS. In hindsight I would even consider progressively ramping up the weight of the sandbag from 60 to 100ish pounds. Candidates carry enormous amounts of weight on their backs during team week and I feel that the sandbag-based strength workouts correspond very well to those events.4. The long rucks on Saturdays can seem extreme during the program but they are the most critical events to prepare for SFAS. I would encourage anyone preparing for SFAS to not cut these rucks short, because they will be rucking even further during selection.Thanks again for developing this program. I hope the comments help out!"


****************


Well.  I am hooked.  My friend pointed me in the direction of MTI because he knew how excited I am about being athletic and outdoors.  I shopped around, I liked the smell, and I settled on a package deal.  I am so glad I did.  I am seven weeks into my Ruck based Selection Plan.  I am very pleased with my progress.  I really appreciate the scientific approach to measuring and analyzing of every effort.  I like the blog posts and Youtube content for when I am unfamiliar with a movement or need a little motivation.  I feel like the focus on standard military movements and ruck fundamentals really set me apart from my peers during a competition last weekend and I would like to very humbly report that I have won the honor of being 2018's NCO of the year for the Oklahoma Army National Guard.  I am moving on to the Region 5 competition in May and will definitely remain engaged with my MTI Ruck Based Selection Plan.


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Completed your Ruck Based Selection Program in the weeks leading up to my SFAS date earlier this month. I definitely felt prepared for everything that was thrown at me during the course and was luckily 'Selected' to top it off. Just wanted to say thanks for the knowledge and work that is poured into your programs. Without them I don't know how well I would have done.


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I just recently returned from SFAS this weekend and wanted to reach back out to MTI to say thanks for the quality training program and for making the coaches so accessible throughout the process. I'm happy to report that I was selected and felt great throughout the course. I was able to continue performing long into the course when so many of my peers began to deteriorate. I'm taking a week off and then getting right back after it in preparation for the Q Course. The grip training, heavy rucks, and run/ruck intervals were the key pieces that I believe made me overall successful. Again, thanks to you and the MTI crew for pointing us in the right direction and making our goals obtainable.



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Just finished SFAS, and I can't thank MTI enough for the prep plan and all of your hard work (lab rats included!) I was selected and can confidently say your ruck based selection prep was a HUGE part of that.


Now that selection is finished, I still have airborne and waiting on Q course dates. I'm looking at 6-8 month window until the Q.


Thanks for everything you guys rock!


****************

Good afternoon. I am following your program and its amazing. I am thankful I found such a comprehensive and effective routine. .I go for selection soon. We did a 5 mile ruck/run so I took today off. Today was suppose to be a 10 mile ruck on week 7. I think pretty soon my body will adapt. Thank you for the amazing info. My LT was amazed, he said this was the most comprehensive plan he had ever seen. You guys really take pride in your work. That means so much to those of us who want to qualify to be the best in the world. Thank you again.

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Morning Rob,

I hope you are well.

Also I went to SFAS in May and got selected. I followed your Ruck Based Selection Plan and never had a problem - was told by the cadre I was a top 5 performer.It worked extremely well and I felt strong throughout. I know some guys have been saying there isn't a need for the longer rucks (12+ mile), but I felt that they made the difference on the land nav phase, where just being on your feet under a ruck for days on end started to break down the other lads. Because I had the extra milage in the legs and back, I felt my ability to recover was much better.

The only thing I did change was on some of the 2 mile intervals, I carried a 50lbs KB in one hand to work on grip strength and replicate events on Team week, that really gave me the edge. I watched people quit because of that.

****************


Coach -


I just wanted to send my thanks for your Ruck Based Selection Program. Just
got back from SFAS and was selected! I was in the top 10% for all events and
rucks. Was able to beast through Team Week even after the long days and
nights of the STAR Course. I couldn't have made it through without your
program. Amazing job in what you and your team do. As a guy who isn't
infantry, it was difficult in figuring out where to start with my training.
You took the guess work out of it, and it paid off in the end. Thank you so
much. - A


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Rob -


I am a little late to sending this, however, I wanted to take a moment and let you know that I appreciate what you do for our community. I recently successfully completed SFAS at the end of January and was selected to start the SFQC.


A little background on me and your training program. I first found your Mountain Athlete in 2009, when I was a Sophomore at The Citadel in Charleston, SC. I stumbled upon your programming by doing some of my own research. I was initially extremely disheartened when the only programming I could ever find for Military (or sport specific) training was all body weight and running that included thousands of reps. I quickly became pretty burnt out conducting "Army" PT in the morning and my own lifting regiment that I picked up from high school sports in the afternoon. Anyway, I quickly began to follow some crossfit workouts, but I did not believe in the "random" training aspect. I wanted to get more sport specific. So I compared all different athletes and tried to figure out what sport is most closely related to "Military Fitness" needs. So I researched professional climbing workouts and coaches. I finally stumbled upon your website as well as Gym Jones. Since then, I have been following your Military Athlete programs to help me complete and exceed at IBOLC, Ranger, and most recently SFAS. I can tell you up front that I could not have been so successful without the training you and your team develops at Mountain Tactical Institute.


I utilized your Ruck Based V5 Selection program to prepare for SFAS. I will say, the programming was definitely pretty difficult and required some dedication at times (but anything worth doing does). At selection, I was able to finish in the top 1% for the rucks, including the trek. However, the runs I was finishing more in the top 20%-30%. I would like to believe that is because the younger 18Xs are just ridiculously fast runners. I would like to offer some feedback to you from my thoughts on your training plan and its effectiveness in preparing for SFAS. ]


- APFT - I maxed the APFT and ran a 12:25 2-Mile. Only thing I would recommend here is addition of some extra push up training during the week, maybe included in the 6 mile run workouts.


- 6 mile running workouts - the 2 mile repeats were probably the thing I dreaded the most each week. I definitely got use to the mileage and suck factor, however, I was just curious on the effectiveness v. the recovery factor every week doing those repeats at a 13:30 pace after an AM workout.


- Strength - I believe your sandbag focused strength training effectively helped with the "awkward" lifting of heavy shit that occurs quite often at SFAS. Only suggestion I would make is possible addition of some extra low carry training.


- Rucking - obviously your ruck training was on point. It helped me finish consistently in the top  of the class. I don't really have a recommendation here just kind of curious to the need of 16 Mile and 18 Mile rucks. Of course, I completed them because they were on my training calendar and for some reason I just can't skip something that's written down, possibly my stubbornness. However, I just thought maybe it was a little excessive to go over 12 Miles when we are focusing on a training effectiveness v. durability for Selection aspect. These are just me thoughts here, and like I said, I still completed the 16 and 18 miles.


I just wanted to provide you and your coaches with some feedback. I logged every single one of my workouts on paper and I would like to send my data to you if you believe it could be useful for improvement in the future. It astonishes me that the Military and its personnel are not treated more like athletes when it comes to fitness, nutrition, and recovery. All the Army programs that are out there seem to me to be half assed and behind the power curve. Your programming is the closest I can get to having an individual trainer who knows what I need ( and I would not be against paying you for personal training). Again Rob, Thank you for everything you and your team does at MTI, keep up the good work because there are a lot of us out here that rely on programing like yours.


****************


Sir,


I recently was selected through SFAS to continue in the SF Q-Course as a hand amputee. The difference between success and failure in many aspects was your Ruck Based Selection Training Plan. Thank you for your passion and ability in programming effective workout regimens.


**********


Hey guys, I've been using your plans for a few years now. Recently I attended SFAS and was Selected. Used your Ruck Selection Plan. - A


*******


Just wanted to say thanks for all the work you've been doing in the functional fitness field. I've used your plans a few times in my military career. Most recently your Ruck Based Selection Plan. I attended SFAS in November of this past year and was Selected. I was definitely prepared for the physical aspect thanks to your programming.


Keep it up! - A


************


By the way, sincere appreciation for y'alls work. I recently came back from SFAS and was completely prepared physically for what we faced.


I appreciate the support! - T


************


I'm a huge fan of your work. I appreciate the scientific rigor you use to create truly inspired workout programs for military guys like me. I just (mostly) finished the Ruck-based Selection train-up and it helped me finish in the top 10 of a support company of over 100 Soldiers during a week of physical events that included the APFT, pull-ups, rope climb, CWST, 5-mile run, and 12-mile ruck. - N


*********************


Rob,



First of all, i just wanted to say thanks.  I did your 8 Week Ruck Based SFAS prep program and just got selected.  Physically i was well prepared for the events, and afterwards am recovering much faster than some others.  A few days after the last event i actually felt completely fine.




Thanks again!


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    Ruck-Based Selection (SFAS) Training Packet
    • Includes 7 training plans and 52 weeks of training to lead you into selection
    • Begins with our Military On Ramp Plan, then proceeds to intense bodyweight training and transitions to gym-based strength, running and rucking
    • Packet finishes with selection-specific Ruck Based Selection Training Plan -intense focus on rucking, running, work capacity “smokers”, core strength and durability
    • This training plans in the packet are included with the other 250+ MTI Plans that come with an Athlete’s Subscription.
    Original price was: $443.00.Current price is: $329.00.
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