I'm thinking about applying to the Naval Academy but I'm a bit worried about the physical requirements. Does anyone know the current PRT standards? How tough are they and what's the best way to prepare physically?
The Physical Readiness Test (PRT) at the United States Naval Academy is a fundamental part of midshipman life and is designed to assess and ensure the physical fitness of all midshipmen. As a quick note, the PRT standards might change or be updated, so always refer to the latest Navy PRT guidelines.
The PRT involves three main components: a 1.5-mile run, push-ups, and curl-ups. Here are the general standards for each component:
1. Push-ups: Male midshipmen are expected to perform 42 push-ups in 2 minutes, whereas female midshipmen are expected to perform 19 in the same timeframe.
2. Curl-ups: The requirement is 52 curl-ups in under 2 minutes for male midshipmen and 37 for female midshipmen.
3. 1.5-mile run: Male midshipmen should aim to complete this in 10:30 or less, whereas female midshipmen should aim for 12:40 or less.
If you're seeking to meet these standards, I would recommend having a consistent exercise regimen. For push-ups and curl-ups, focus on core strengthening and upper-body conditioning exercises. Planking, for example, can help with both.
As for the run, the best way to improve cardiovascular endurance is to combine both long, slow runs and short, fast interval training. Solid preparation isn't just about meeting minimum standards, but also about maintaining good health and physical fitness throughout your Naval Academy experience.
Remember that these are minimum requirements and the more you exceed them, the better you'll perform at the Academy. Best of luck!
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