Use it or lose it

We asked soldiers how they plan to keep their fitness up over the summer

I tend to set myself physical challenges and a goal to meet every year – that way you have something to aim for during the summer months when PT might be less appealing. You need to give yourself a purpose otherwise you can get distracted, especially as you get older. Cpl Mark Bailey, AGC (RMP, pictured above)

I’ll do some form of run or aerobic training at least every other day. Then on the other days I’ll do gym-based work. It’s good to keep structure to your leave, but Saturdays and Sundays are rest days. LSgt Ben Wright, Coldm Gds

For me, keeping fit over the summer break is all about establishing a strict routine. You also need to exercise with purpose and enjoy it. I’m recovering from a recent knee surgery. My goal this year is to return to running as soon as I can, so I’ll be committing fully to my rehab and PT over leave. WO1 Matty Howarth, RE

I’m the lead PTI for the North West Officer Training Regiment. I need to set an example, so that is all the motivation I need to keep going in the gym through the summer. There are days – certainly in the heat – when it’ll be tough but I think about how good I’ll feel afterwards, and the benefits of staying fit. SSgt Toby Townsend,  AGC (RMP)

We all know the fundamentals of fitness so it just takes discipline to continue training consistently through the summer. Personally, I buy a membership of a gym near to home and continue the physical conditioning routines I do at work. Cpl Rhys Calland, REME (Army Strongman champion)

I make sure I exercise hard four times a week, every week. This includes running, swimming and bodyweight exercises. My routine around fitness does not vary too much over leave as it’s important to stay fit and healthy. Cpl Aaron Stone, RLC 

It’s good to keep plugging away at phys over the summer. It doesn’t have to be seven days a week or as intense as in work. I’ll be in the gym and running. On holiday, nothing beats a run along  the beach. Gdsm Kit Lee, Coldm Gds

Interviews: Soldier team   Picture: Graeme Main