Joining the military while being overweight and having a bad job

I'm currently struggling with my weight and don't enjoy my job. I've been thinking about joining the military when I finish high school. What are the steps to improve my chances of being accepted despite these challenges?

You're definitely not alone in feeling this way and it's admirable that you're thinking about constructive steps to take to improve your life. As you've probably heard, the military does have strict physical fitness and body composition standards that vary by branch (Army, Navy, Marines, Air Force, Coast Guard, and Space Force). However, don't feel discouraged; many people successfully enter and thrive in the military by following a dedicated plan to meet these standards. Here's a strategy that may help.

First, it's crucial to emphasize regular physical exercise. This could be as simple as beginning with walking, gradually developing it into a running regimen, and incorporating strength training over time. The specific physical requirements will depend on the branch of military you're considering, but running, push-ups, and sit-ups are commonly tested in the military physical fitness tests.

Second, it's equally important to eat a balanced and healthy diet. This not only helps with weight loss, but should improve your overall physical and mental health, which are both important for military service. Remember, it's not just about reducing quantity of food, but also about increasing the quality of what you're eating.

Third, you might consider talking to a local recruiter from your desired military branch. They can give you specific advice tailored to your situation. They might even be able to connect you with resources or community programs designed to help potential recruits get in shape and pass the required physical tests for entry.

Lastly, while you're working on your fitness goals, consider finding job opportunities or extracurricular activities that could strengthen your character and capabilities. This could be anything from volunteering, joining a leadership organization, or getting a job that better suits your interests. The military values a broad range of experiences and skills, so improving in these areas could boost your application as well.

Remember, everyone's journey is different, and it's okay to take things at your own pace. It's all about consistently making choices that get you closer to your goal. You've already taken the first step by identifying your goals and making a plan—keep up the good work!