I am a female high school junior seriously considering joining the military after graduation. I want to challenge myself but also want to be prepared. Could anyone give me a heads up about which branch is generally considered the hardest for females to join and why? All advice is welcome!
The difficulty of joining a certain military branch can generally depend on your personal strengths and goals, rather than your gender. That said, many consider The Marines to be the most physically demanding branch. Although standards vary slightly between genders, the physical fitness requirements remain quite high.
For example, recruits must pass the Initial Strength Test (IST) before they can start training. The IST for females includes a minimum of 44 crunches in 2 minutes, a 1.5 mile run in 15 minutes, and a flexed arm hang for a minimum of 12 seconds. Additionally, while in training, all recruits participate in the Physical Fitness Test (PFT) and the Combat Fitness Test (CFT).
In terms of non-physical challenges, each branch has its own unique demands in areas like technical skills development, leadership training, and deployment commitments. It's important to consider these aspects as well.
Getting in touch with recruiters from different branches, researching, and talking to those who have served can provide valuable insights. Also, keep in mind that there are opportunities for continuing education while serving in the military, which can be an important factor in your decision.
Remember, military life is a big commitment and it's essential to make an informed decision that aligns with your long-term goals and aspirations.
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