Brief Summary
This video provides guidance on how to prepare for the water-related aspects of BUD/S (Basic Underwater Demolition/SEAL) training. It emphasizes the importance of learning the combat swimmer side stroke, becoming comfortable in open water, and managing the mental challenges associated with swimming in cold, murky conditions. The speaker stresses that while swimming technique is crucial, it's less likely to cause injuries compared to running, making it a skill to develop consistently but without overexertion.
- Prioritize learning and mastering the combat swimmer side stroke for SEAL training.
- Transition from pool practice to open water to adapt to realistic conditions.
- Focus on comfort and mental resilience in challenging water environments.
Introduction
The video series aims to provide resources for individuals preparing for BUD/S (SEAL training). The speaker, Chad Wright, shares his experiences from Class 278, where he successfully completed the training without any setbacks. The series will cover mental preparation, endurance training (running), water preparation, and calisthenics to help viewers get ready for BUD/S.
Barbell Apparel Advertisement
The video is sponsored by Barbell Apparel. The speaker highlights the ultralight Tech T and ranger shorts, emphasizing their functionality and comfort for various activities like running, lifting, and biking. He encourages viewers to support the companies that support the 3 of 7 Project and this YouTube channel.
Importance of Water Training for BUD/S
The speaker discusses the second most important aspect of preparing for BUD/S: water training, specifically swimming. He recounts his initial lack of swimming experience, only knowing the dog paddle. To even qualify for a SEAL contract, candidates must pass a physical standards test (PST), which includes a 500-meter swim using either breaststroke or combat swimmer side stroke.
Learning the Strokes
For beginners, the speaker recommends starting with the breaststroke due to its simplicity. However, he emphasizes transitioning to the combat swimmer side stroke, as it is the primary stroke used throughout SEAL training. While pre-BUD/S training will help refine this stroke, candidates should aim to be reasonably proficient before arriving.
Transitioning to Open Water
The speaker advises against spending too much time in the pool, as all timed swims in BUD/S occur in open water, either in San Diego Bay or the Pacific Ocean. Pool sessions during BUD/S are primarily for "beat down" exercises like treading water with bricks. Open water swimming requires learning to guide without lane markers, picking a point on the horizon to maintain a straight course.
Comfort and Mental Preparation in Water
It's crucial to become comfortable in the open water environment, which is often murky and cold, unlike a clear, warm pool. Swimming in cold water, if possible, is beneficial since BUD/S water conditions are consistently cold. Developing comfort in the water involves spending more time in it, getting used to the conditions, and relaxing.
Balancing Water Training with Other Preparations
While treading water can be practiced, it shouldn't be overemphasized. The focus should be on mastering the combat swimmer side stroke and becoming comfortable in the water. The speaker suggests that water training is more about skill and technique, and less likely to cause injuries compared to running. He recommends swimming at least once a week for about an hour.
Additional Tips and Resources
The speaker advises against practicing with fins before pre-BUD/S, as the PST is taken without them. He notes the abundance of online resources, such as YouTube videos, demonstrating the combat swimmer side stroke and treading techniques, which were not available when he was preparing for BUD/S. He encourages viewers to take advantage of these resources.
