BUD/S training or Basic Underwater Demolition/SEAL training is a requirement for every Navy SEAL. This training lasts about six months with multiple phases. The first phase is one of the most intense and will test the commitment of a man wanting to become a Navy SEAL.
This video shows day one of the first phase of BUD/S training. It’s a day where candidates will learn if they have what it takes to be a Navy SEAL or not. The rigorous physical test on day one may be enough to make some quit and others will become even more dedicated to becoming a Navy SEAL.
Just the Beginning of it All
Day one is just the beginning of the journey for a Navy SEAL. The intense training is just beginning and Hell Week is on the horizon. With PTs including a massive log, along with several other physical tasks, those too weak to handle this training will quickly be weeded out.
SEALS must work as a team and must help each other to complete day one or any other part of the training. While day one is incredibly physical, it’s also a huge mental test for the recruits. They must fight through their urge to quit as the test will push them to their limits.
It may start with day one, but phase one is far from over if you get through this rigorous day of training.
What’s in Store after Day One?
Day one is filled with physical challenges and you may be so hyped up about becoming a SEAL that the day goes rather smoothly for you. However, BUD/S training isn’t a sprint, it’s a long marathon. You have six months of total training and day one is just the start.
After day one, you will be looking forward as you continue to train. Week three will be Hell Week and you’ll be lucky if you get more than four hours of sleep the entire week. Even during other days of training outside of Hell Week, you will likely be running on less sleep than you’re used to. This intense training will separate the men from the boys and the SEALS from the Sailors.
Nothing about the training is easy or can be treated like a break. SEALS go through some of the most intense physical training of anybody in the military. While the first phase is the toughest, it doesn’t really get easier.
The first phase of BUD/S training will last 8 weeks including Hell Week. It’s a time for basic conditioning through incredible physical tasks. It will test the physical endurance, teamwork and mental capacity of every recruit. More than 60% will quit before the first phase of training is over.
Why Some Quit and Others Don’t
The reason so many quit during BUD/S has very little to do with physical strength. Every recruit entering the training was chosen because of the physical ability they have. However, the attitude and mental aptitude of each recruit will either help them complete the training or cause them to quit.
It takes a burning desire to want to become a Navy SEAL to complete BUD/S training. Without this desire, the physical tools and mental abilities won’t be enough. You may survive day one, but those without a burning desire to be a Navy SEAL will not make it much further.
What to Expect During BUD/S Training
While the video just shows a little bit of what to expect on day one, the training gets more intense from here on out. Phase one is eight weeks long and will include four-mile time runs in boots, running in the sand, two-mile swims in the ocean, Hell Week, less sleep than you’re used to, cold and wet conditions, exhaustion and so much more. It’s all about physical conditioning.
Phase two will also last eight weeks and will include all types of water training. You will learn how to breathe with the different equipment used by SEALS. You will also go through combat dive training and long-distance underwater dive training.
The final phase lasts nine weeks and includes even more physical training. You will also train with weapons and demolitions. In addition, you will train ion rappelling and fast rope operations. This is the final phase of the training and if you complete it, you will become a Navy SEAL.
If you’re considering becoming a Navy SEAL and you’re about to join the military, think about the path you really want to take. Check out the video from SEAL SWCC about Day One of BUD/S training first. If you have the burning desire, go for it. If not, maybe it’s time to consider a different military career.