Surround yourself with people who inspire you

As the sun rises over Worthy Down, dew covers its grassy embankments and the crows awake to embrace the new day, as do the birds. The harmony of the morn is suddenly broken by the strident footsteps of a gaggle of PODP students clad in Hi Vis, making their way to the gates on their morning run.

Proudly led by the keenest among them, the group moves with a simultaneous combination of vitality and lethargy. Still shaking off their early morning sleepiness, they press on. Self-consciously bringing up the rear with a face fixed in concentration and discomfort, a young lady marvels at the strength and determination that she sees before her.

Running does not come easily to the poorly initiated and flat footed members of society. It is an art to push oneself in spite of natural temptations to choose comfort and ease. Indeed, the true mental commitment that is required to run better is a vital element that can often be neglected by sub-par runners. This is precisely the reason why there is no greater way of improving than seeing those who have already made that commitment apply it themselves. As easy as it may feel to lie in bed and shy away from the discomfort, when such a brilliant motivator is at your disposal you would be foolish to not use it!

Army life is a new concept to many in the group, but in this short time it has become clear that group Physical Training shouldn’t solely be restricted to scheduled sessions. It is easy to break a late night promise of morning exercise made to oneself, much less so to someone else. Accountability is the next best thing when intrinsic motivation leaves something to be desired. The reality is that when push comes to stretcher race, you’ll thank yourself and your teammates for making the effort to get out early and start the day on the right foot. Or the left if you have already succumbed to the praxis of drill...

OCdt B.