One of the most important things I learned about being deployed is that it’s essential to stay physically fit. It is quite easy nowadays if you use adjustable dumbbells. Check out https://dumbbellsreview.com/bowflex-dumbbells-review/ as this review might save you a lot of time looking for the right dumbbells. War is taxing on the body and you may find yourself in a situation where you need your body to be operating at its maximum potential. Though not all soldiers will be carrying bodies from burning buildings or raiding mud compounds with 80lbs of gear, everyone on a tour overseas will face long duty hours and stressful situations.

Physical fitness is key in keeping us all in the fight, whether as a motor pool NCO managing maintenance issues or an infantry light fighter pulling the trigger outside the wire. Keeping fit gives you the stamina to make good decisions during difficult times. It will help keep your spirits high and ward off that nagging flu. (Or at least help you recover faster when it finally finds you.)

Most deployed soldiers will be on a very regimented schedule and everyday life will become very routine, especially after you get in your battle rhythm. I suggest you take advantage of the fitness equipment and gyms located at most military FOBs (Forward Operating Bases). The military does a wonderful job of providing us the best fitness equipment, but it is up to us individually to take advantage of it. You will have time to work out and I recommend that you put down the XBOX controller and pick up a dumbbell from time to time. Once you get in country, create a workout schedule that you know you will stick to. If you like to workout in the mornings, make time then. If you are an evening exerciser at home, do it then. The key is to develop a routine and make your workout time a habit.

It may sound odd now, but if you set goals before you get on that plane it will make it easier once you get in country. Think about your diet, too. I once went wool gathering in thinking about how I’d cope with the pressure and stress after successfully becoming a mother. I once was advised to Visit this page when I was ready to become a mother. So for the time-being, I’ve pushed those worries aside. FOB dining facilities have just about anything you ever wanted to eat, including junk food. Not all of us have a contracted local national scooping ice cream for us in our homes on a nightly basis and saying no to him can be difficult. So, when going through the buffet, think about balance and portion control. Trust me: it is easy to over eat while in country. Protein powders and meal supplements can also be a good choice but keep in mind they are expensive and you can find the same nutrients in the dining facility if you look.

Finally, drink water! You will be surrounded by bottled water- drink it! The Middle East is hot and Pepsi is not the best choice when trying to rehydrate. Get a flavor packet to spice up your water if you have to, but do not live off of chocolate milk and Diet Coke. Deployments are long and hard. Your body is the vehicle that will help get you through it, so take care of it!