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Enlisting in the Military - Which Branch is Easiest?

I'm a rising junior thinking of joining the military after high school, but admittedly I'm a bit scared I'm not cut out for it. Does anyone know which branch might be 'easier' to get into or less physically demanding, for someone who isn't super athletic but still eager to serve?

a year ago

It's commendable that you're considering serving in the military after high school. The physical requirements and intensity of training can vary significantly between different branches of the military, so it's an important factor to consider.

The initial training, often referred to as "boot camp," is generally most rigorous in the Marines and Army. The Navy and Air Force have reputations for being a bit less physically demanding, although still challenging.

The Air Force is often considered the branch with the least physically demanding training and requirements. However, it's important to note that the Air Force places a significant emphasis on technical skills and education. If you're interested in roles related to technology, engineering, or aviation, the Air Force could be a good fit.

The Coast Guard's training is also less physically demanding than that of the Marines or Army. Their missions typically focus a lot on maritime law enforcement, search and rescue, and environmental protection. If you're interested in these fields and enjoy working around water, the Coast Guard might be a good fit.

The Space Force, the newest branch of the military, focuses on space-related missions. Its physical requirements are likely to be less rigorous than some of the other branches, but since it is still new, requirements and training programs are still being established.

Of course, individual experiences can vary a lot depending on the specific job you're assigned to within any branch of the military, so it's also helpful to look at the different career fields available within each branch and see which ones align with your interests and abilities. And remember, while it's normal to feel somewhat intimated by the physical challenges, the training programs are designed to gradually build up your abilities over time. You don't need to be a supreme athlete to succeed.

a year ago

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