Physical Fitness

When I ask my students what was the one thing they wish they had done before reporting on Matriculation Day, the #1 answer by far is that they would have been in better shape.  #2 is getting use to waking up at 5am. 

Physical Fitness falls under the "Fitness" pillar of the Leadership Model.   It is our hope that cadets will develop the habit of exercising and staying in shape.   As I tell my students, leadership is a 24/7 activity which requires a strong level of fitness to be able to make the right decisions when things are going well or in times of crisis.  This is the time to develop those healthy habits.  

We evaluate cadets in regard to this pillar each semester with a Physical Fitness Test that is based off those used by the military services.  Ms. Erin Leonard is the test coordinator.  She is tough, but fair meaning cadets get credit when they do the exercise correctly.  I encourage you to click on the following link to watch (with your cadet) the video below that shows how to do the plank and push-up exercises correctly.  

As the video points out, we test twice a year.   The test results are tied to privileges in which the most important to a cadet are found during their senior year.  In the fall of their senior year they have to pass in order to be eligible to receive their rings with their classmates and their spring test is tied to their participation in the Commencement Ceremony - yes, both are big deals.

For Freshmen, it is important to arrive in good shape.  During the first week and a half, there is a focus on bonding as a group through a tough, shared experience.  If a cadet is unable to participate with the group for various reasons, it becomes more difficult for them to adapt.  Note, I did not say they couldn't, just that it's more difficult - especially when seeing their classmates out there working so hard.   So, the more prepared they are, the more likely they will be a full participant.  Encourage them to report in good shape as well as having their shoes broken in so they don't have to deal with blisters.  If they aren't preparing, then you may want to make sure that it is still their desire to come to The Citadel.         

If you aren't too tired from the video, Click on the NEXT Button to learn about our Summer Prep Program, CSI