Preparing for Success: Green Beret Fitness

Let’s start with this – I’ve had my fair share of event success and failure with Green Beret Fitness. My college softball coach always said that she would do everything she could to help set us up for success. Following these tips does not guarantee success at an event, but they have set me up for more successful events. Everyone has their way of doing things, so find what works for you!

Tip 1: Download the Route

This should be obvious, yet at every single event, someone doesn’t have the route downloaded. You have to signup for the professional version of AllTrails to do this, but I promise you that it’s worth it. Use the referral link – they’ll plant a tree for both of us once you sign up.

Bonus: Know the route, especially any “gotcha” points. It’s beneficial to have a general idea of when splits on a trail will happen especially if one leads you in the wrong direction. Knowing the route also gives the advantage of knowing sections where you can “send it” and makeup time.

Tip 2: Eat and Drink Before you Need it

Fueling your body is very important, especially when you need to make a strong push. This is something that you should practice during your training. Know what foods your body plays well with. Sip more water than you might think you need. If you’re hungry or thirsty, it’s probably too late.

Bonus: Some guys I met on my Grand Canyon R3 set their watches to remind them to drink water and electrolytes at specific intervals. I haven’t personally done this, but if you forget to drink, this may be helpful.

Tip 3: Know Your Pack

Know where your stuff is. I learned this lesson during Operation OCALA in 2022 – it took me far too long at checkpoints to find the things I needed. Packing useful gear, not dead weight, is also valuable. You would rather have it and not need it than need it and not have it. A 20# plate won’t do you much good if you’re lost on a mountain.

Bonus: Adjust your pack to be comfortable from the start. Or if you need to stop and adjust quickly, it may save your body. Even a pound or two on one side of your body can cause unnecessary discomfort (see Operation STIRLING 2023).

Tip 4: Enjoy Yourself

Where else would you rather be? Be present in the moment and enjoy it. It may not feel great, but the experience usually outweighs the struggle. Sometimes it is hard to appreciate where you are, but when you look at the big picture, being out in nature is awesome. Take a few pictures, but not too many – you’ve got a time to make!

Bonus: Keep on smiling.

Tip 5: Learn from Others

We don’t know it all – you can learn a lot from others. So, instead of just hearing it from me, I’ve asked the 2024 Green Beret Fitness Team to weigh in.

“Keep your hands out of your pockets. If you weren’t the first one off the line, but start breaking spiderwebs on the trail, someone is not navigating well. I find it a good time to check the map. And finally, dog tag or not (but always strive to earn a tag) finishing a GBF event, is something to be proud of.”

Charlie (@capt_charlie)

“Move with a purpose. Check the map frequently (very frequently). The faster you go, the faster you will be done. Oh, and don’t spray yourself with bear spray”

Olga (@ocr_beastess)

“Get intimately familiar with the AllTrails app but also carry a paper backup with notes. A fast descent will never make up for a too-slow ascent”

Dustin (@wayne_co_ruck_club)

“Don’t let fear or doubt hold you back. Face them squarely and you will come out stronger than you imagined.”

Clint (@drtwhls)

“Don’t be late”

Gregg McLeod, Owner, Green Beret Fitness (@green_beret_fitness)

Bringing It All Together

At the end of the day, your success will depend on your overall preparation, both physical and mental. In summary, know the route, move well, face your challenges, and show up on time.

Ready to sign up for your next event? Use GBF-SAM for 15% off.

Have some of your own tips, tricks, or advice? Comment with them below!