Transitioning
As a Navy Reserve Enlistee, you will be required to attend Recruit Training in Great Lakes, Illinois. This nine-week course will help transform you from a civilian to a Sailor, both mentally and physically.
Training
The training philosophy of the Navy Reserve is fast-paced and high-energy. Be prepared to receive a great amount of information and undergo intense physical exercise in a short period of time.
Building Your Body
Physical training (PT) occurs every morning and is comprised of aerobic or strength and conditioning exercises. You’ll be required to complete a baseline Physical Readiness Test (PRT) at both the beginning and end of your training. Upon completion of the course, you will be given a Personal Fitness Assessment (PFA) to determine your fitness level.
Getting a Head Start
If you’d like to get a head start on your physical conditioning, we suggest a strength training program that begins at least six months prior to your initial training. This will provide you with the physical strength and mental toughness to enter Recruit Training with confidence. Suggested daily exercises include a combination of the following:
- Walking and/or jogging
- Rollerblading
- Swimming
- Crunches
- Pull-ups
- Push-ups
Candidates are also advised to stretch prior to working out and drink extra fluids before and after exercising.
Sharpening Your Mind
You’ll be given classroom instruction focusing on military bearing, protocol, customs and courtesies. To pass, you must satisfactorily complete qualitative and/or quantitative tests on what you have learned.
You must also memorize and recite from memory the 11 General Orders of a Sentry, the Sailor’s Creed and “Anchors Aweigh” at various times during your training.
Specific training includes:
- Chemical, Biological and Radiological Defense (CBRD) exercises
- Basic Shipboard Firefighting
- Candidates must also pass the Navy 3rd-Class Swim Test
Specialty Careers
Recent high school graduates who are entering the Navy Reserve as Hospital Corpsmen (health care), Masters-at-Arms (law enforcement) or Seabees (Construction Battalion) must complete the standard eight-week Navy Recruit Training program.
Next steps:
Contact a Navy Reserve Recruiter for more information.