How to Prepare for Military Fitness Tests as a Civilian

Planning to apply to the British Army (regular or Sandhurst), Royal Marines (officer or regular) Or just want to train like someone who is? Military fitness tests are designed to identify people with not just physical strength — but mental resilience, speed, coordination and endurance. Civilians can absolutely train for these tests — but preparation matters.

Here’s how to do it right.

1. Know the Tests You’ll Face

Each branch has its own requirements, but most will include:

• Press-ups (or push-ups)

• Sit-ups or plank holds

• 1.5-mile run and bleep test

• Loaded carries or weight-based assessments

• Team-based or problem-solving tasks

It’s vital to know what’s expected of you before day one.  Your careers advisor or the team here at the Commando Temple can guide you further.

2. Don’t Just Train Hard — Train Smart

Many civilians start by running long distances or hammering gym machines. But military fitness training isn’t about isolated muscle groups — it’s about total body readiness.

Many potential candidates never make stage one of training due to injury or lack of structured preparation.

You’ll need:

• Functional strength – simply put, that means transferable strength and fitness

• Skill-specific prep and conditioning (what do you need to perform for your intended career)

• Recovery discipline (sleep, nutrition, hydration)

Our programme prepares you for all of that — not just the test, but the reality of life in the Forces.

3. Focus on Your Weak Links

Can you sprint well, but lack endurance? Great at lifting, but can’t run? Use your training time to address those gaps.

Military training will expose your weaknesses quickly.  Our multi-faceted assessment process, helps us to prepare for this, and make you more “rounded”, which improves your chances of thriving, .and makes us look better as professionals (a natural bi-product).

4. Build Your Mental Toolkit

When you’re exhausted and under pressure, technique and mindset matter more than brute strength. Practise:

• Positive self-talk

• Breathing techniques

• Staying calm under stress

• Visualising success

These tools will serve you just as much as your physical conditioning.

5. Train in the Right Environment

Training alone is fine for basics. But if you want to prepare for the reality of a military-style environment, you need coaches who understand what’s required — and a community who will push you harder than you’ll push yourself. 

That’s what you’ll find here at the Commando Temple.

In a nutshell

Passing a military fitness test isn’t just about reps and running. It’s about confidence, capability under pressure, and carrying yourself like you belong.

Start now — and show up ready.

Button – Learn more [links to https://bestronger.co.uk/our-services/military-fitness-training-london/]