Dealing with the dual demands of military life and a civvy career is a test for any reservist – throw in a world record attempt and life gets really hectic.
But Northamptonshire-based Cpl Mark Bailey (AGC (RMP)) – who has served for the past six years – is determined to deliver the goods when it comes to smashing a phys treble.
Over the coming three months he’s looking to deliver the most burpees and the highest number of chest-to-floor push-up versions of the exercise in a minute plus the quickest-ever mile of burpee broad jumps.
The 45-year-old PTI, who serves with 1 Regiment, Royal Military Police and is a cadet instructor, also hopes his efforts will raise £10,000 for the CCF Association...
How often are you training for this?
Five times a week – with two rest days built into the routine.
One is usually an active recovery session – mobility work, stretching or a light walk. But I do listen to my body and will move sessions around if that’s needed.
Are you mainly in the gym?
Yes. These sessions are a combination of strength training and conditioning with a focus on working the anaerobic energy system – short, intense efforts. I also enjoy taking part in events including the Fan Dance and Paras’10, which test both your mental and physical resilience. I’m representing my unit in the AGC Triple Crown Challenge this month.
Have you had any setbacks?
I pulled my hamstring at my daughter’s sports day, of all places. I did everything I tell others not to – I didn’t warm up, wasn’t hydrated and it was a hot day. A classic case of getting caught up in the moment and forgetting the basics!
Ouch. How did you deal with it?
By focusing on proper rehabilitation with targeted mobility work, stretching and progressive strengthening while staying active with upper body and low-impact training. Since then I have built in mobility, active recovery and prehab work, especially around running and explosive movements. I like turning setbacks into fuel. It’s not always easy, but some of my biggest progress, whether in training or life, has come just after things didn’t go to plan.
Is mental preparation important?
Yes – I break challenges down into smaller chunks – a minute or round at a time. Focusing on just the next step helps me stay in the game without being overwhelmed.
Routine is key then?
It helps – having a set structure means I just get started, even if I’m not fully in the mood. I also begin my day with an ice bath and have another after training. It’s a mental switch to sharpen me up and remind me I’m in control.
What about nutrition?
At the moment I’m focused on reducing body fat while maintaining strength and performance, so I space my intake across four balanced meals a day. Each includes a source of lean protein, like chicken, eggs, or Greek yoghurt along with complex carbohydrates such as oats, rice, or sweet potato. I also include plenty of veg for nutrients and fibre, and make sure I’m getting in healthy fats through foods including avocado, olive oil and nuts.
Any guilty pleasures?
Anything baked by my wife. She makes some amazing brownies and cookies, so it’s hard to say no when the kitchen smells that good. If I’ve trained hard I’m not going to feel bad about enjoying something now and then.
Finally, you must be sleeping well?
I aim for around seven to eight hours a night. Sleep is when your body recovers, repairs muscle tissue and processes everything mentally. I treat sleep like part of my training and it is just as important as the sessions themselves.
Cpl Mark Bailey’s vital stats and daily nutrition targets
Cap badge: AGC (RMP)
Current unit: 116 Provost Coy, 1 Regt RMP
Civvy role: Sports and remedial massage therapist
Age: 45 Years
Height: 175cm
Weight: 76kg
Calories: 2,260 kcal
Protein: 160g
Carbohydrates: 225g
Fats: 80g
