Becoming a Marine requires a level of fitness that the average military person does not possess. Fitness tests are more difficult, training is more challenging, and Marines need to be in above-average condition to perform their duties.
For example, the Marine Fitness Test (PFT) consists of pull-ups, planks, and a 3-mile run. The runs are 1-1.5 miles longer than other services, and the pull-ups are the toughest gymnastics tested in the US military. Then there is the Marine Corps Combat Fitness Test (CFT). This is a more intense job-related test that requires a range of agility movements such as running 800 meters, carrying equipment, dragging people, moving ammo cans, and throwing. Grenade (for accuracy). The Marine Steeplechase is another test that Marines must master as well. just to become a Marine.
Marine reconnaissance standards and tests are even better. Next to being approved and completing reconnaissance training, he must prepare to undergo two fitness tests.
RTAP is a selection program that you work hard to enter. If you do not pass this course and the overall test, you are not eligible to take the Basic Reconnaissance Course (BRC) to become a Reconnaissance Marine. The RPAT and RTAP tests are next-level fitness tests that add more exercises, swims and racks to the standard ocean fitness test. If you don’t pass the RPAT, your scouting journey will end before it even begins, so do your best in the next RPAT event.
- Swim 500 meters in breaststroke or sidestroke (no shorts/fins)
- Longest pushup (2 minutes)
- Crunch max (2 minutes)
- Pull-up maximum (palms facing out)
- 1.5 miles timed run (boots/pants)
- 12 mile rack/run at £50 (3 hour limit)
- Get timed twice on the USMC Obstacle Course
There are minimum standards for this test, but these minimum scores or times should not be your ultimate goal. Exceeding the bar is the norm if you want to do more than just be selected to participate in Special Forces training.
The minimum requirements for RPAT are primarily to ensure that you have the basic competencies to enter the program and to be able to handle the rapidly increasing amount of physical activity that follows the basic reconnaissance course.
- 500 yard swim: Within 12:30 (9 minutes)*
- Push-ups: 42 (80-100)
- Abs: 50 (80-100)
- Pull-ups: 6 (20)
- 1.5 mile run: Within 11:30 (9 minutes)
- 12-mile 50-pound rack: 3 hours or less (2:30 — 12-13 minutes per mile pace)
- 2 USMC Obstacle Courses: 1st under 4 minutes, 2nd completed (under 3 minutes 30 seconds)
*Scores in brackets are my recommendations for above average spec ops fitness performance.
The RTAP (Reconnaissance Exercise and Assessment Program Test) will be conducted during the 5-week program to assess readiness to continue. The events included in RTAP are:
- Suspension max
- Crunch max (2 minutes)
- Longest pushup (2 minutes)
- 3 miles timed run
- Swim 500m wearing cammy (no boots): within 15 minutes (sidestroke or breaststroke)
- 25 meter underwater swim
- Retrieve the rifle 16.5 feet from the bottom of the pool
- 25m Rifle Swim/Tow
- 30 minute tread test
Once the Marine passes the physical, an interview and psychological test follow.
Marine Corps Reconnaissance Select Course Details
The 5-week reconnaissance training and assessment program will quickly equip students with the basic knowledge of many of the events performed after the basic reconnaissance course: mountaineering, land navigation, basic knotting, underwater survival/treading, racking, etc. Helps you learn and review.
As with most special operations related courses, extensive education is provided through lectures, classroom discussions, demonstrations, and hands-on application of new skills. Students will also be tested on their written and tactical skills, making it more than just a physical fitness test. Mostly challenged in the pool skills portion, this course is both instruction and selection for Marines striving for reconnaissance training.
All prospective reconnaissance students must first complete infantry training before joining RTAP. RTAP takes place over his five weeks, and most of the scouting party’s attrition occurs here. Think of this as a special forces selection program, not a pre-training course. Get ready for hardcore runs, racks, PTs, swims and challenging tread drills.
After the above tests and evaluations, you can enroll in the basic reconnaissance course. Learn more about reconnaissance missions and history here.
Stew Smith is a former Navy SEAL and fitness author who is a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) with the National Strength and Conditioning Association.visit him fitness ebook store If you are looking to start a workout program to create a healthy lifestyle. Send fitness questions to [email protected].
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