How To Prevent Foot Injuries During Ruck Marches

[@carlhicksjr8401]

I'm a vet with a fiberglass shin. Got pins just above the ankle and just below the knee. Trust me when I tell you, you REALLY want to take care of your feet and joints. The factory replacements pretty much suck. First, foremost and always: GOOD SOCKS. The minute you get out of Basic /AIT, dump those fucking polyester socks and get yourself some wool hunting socks. Why? Wool wicks moisture away from your feet. It helps keep your feet warm even if they get soaking wet. Wool cushions the foot and ankle better than anything else and this helps prevent blisters. Lastly, wool socks don't stink as much as cotton or poly socks do. Some folks have a problem with wool itching the skin. Two solutions for that: foot powder and look into Merino Wool socks. Now, a quick warning: wool socks are expensive. You can spend up to $20 per pair. But you only get one set of feet. Spend $100 on several pair, and then budget for a new pair every year as you replace the worst-worn pair. Second, buy an extra pair of boots when you get out of Basic. When I was in, we still had to shine boots. Yeah, it was a pain in the ass. What I had was 4 pair of boots: a highly shined set of inspection boots, two pair of duty boots, and one pair of fucked up, oil stained boots that I kept in the CONEX or aboard the vehicle for fucking around in the motor pool. All boots were broken in, all were maintained [cleaned and polish applied as a waterproof]. PROTIP: If you have a pair of boots that fit comfortably but the soles or heels are wearing out, you don't have to throw them away. Get them resoled or re-heeled at a shoe repair! Comfortable boots are one of life's little treasures, *maintain them* and you won't have to break in a new set of boots every other year. Last: If you have some advance warning that you're gonna be rucking, STRETCH OUT; especially your quads, calves, and Achilles. Don't forget to stretch the lower back as well. You'll also want to look into keeping your potassium levels up, so eat bananas. This helps prevent or mitigate cramps. For those of you out there doing the work, please accept the respects of an old cavalry corporal. Thanks for your time.

[@jakepokemonman1227]

Carl Hicks Jr Thank you for your wisdom, you wrote that message 5 months ago I just read it now. Much appreciated.

[@Rob-ui8rz]

No, thank you.

[@creeperender69]

Ty I am going into the Norwegian marine in two weeks:)

[@carlhicksjr8401]

@@creeperender69 Good luck! Hope you make it!

[@creeperender69]

@@carlhicksjr8401 ty :) I think I will;)

[@matthewrowley9679]

This is honestly a really important video, some people might not think so. Ingrown toenails can be problem if they get infected (I'm talking from experience).

[@tankmeltedargon8831]

You're right mate it's incredibly important, how to prevent and treat ingrown nails would have been good to add too. I broke my big toe by slipping and sliding into a concrete step trying to do flips into a swimming pool. The nail ended up embedded under the skin past the joint, a Dr popped the nail with a hot paper clip, pulled it out and strapped my toe straight. The nail grew back ingrown and gave me hell for 2 years until I had surgery, a wedge reduction where they cut out the nail root and nail on each side of my toe, only leaving a 3rd of the nail in the middle. They had to carve it up so much, there was something ridiculous like 13 stitches and it took forever to heal. The surgery most likely wouldn't have been needed if I had known how to treat the new nail to prevent it becoming ingrown. You wouldn't think a bloody toenail could give so much grief.

[@jonklaus1466]

@@tankmeltedargon8831 I know that pain man living hell lol.

[@ttman6197]

Matthew Rowley ingrown nails are annoying and painful best thing is sink them in in salt and warm water and they’ll heal

[@carterisakson117]

I've had both my toes cut my big toes I try my best to my toenails clean so they don't get infected

[@jalil7468]

Pedicures brother. Many men think its "gay". Nah its taking care of your feet.

[@adamhenry9923]

I just graduated basic yesterday I made it 40 miles through the forge with out a single blister or injury I was happy especially once I got to put that beret on and the buses pulled up to take us back to the barracks

[@WhoWouldWantThisName]

Wait, you got a ride back to the barracks? Just kidding, but we did our ruck march all the way back to our barracks at the end of FTX and our "Forge" type of thing.

[@jamesfoster7735]

Congrats on graduating!

[@chillsounds4356]

What battalion were you at basic, i graduated Nov 15

[@adamhenry9923]

Malik Toure I was 1-34 Fort Jackson we graduated the 8th of November

[@chillsounds4356]

@@adamhenry9923 2-13 15 of nov

[@kaneda956]

My DS actually let me get some DR scholls soles at the PX.. He was pretty cool about it.. I asked if it was contraband.. He said " no private, thats for your feet. Carry on"... I miss FLW.

[@2111jade]

XD. For some reason I laughed when you put "no private, that's for your feet."

[@kaneda956]

Domino_Emery lmao he seriously said that.. He didnt want any future joes getting re cycled

[@nate7108]

Screw Fort Leonard wood

[@zyxwvutsafara]

I hope I get the same "sweetness" for my BCT arrival in 2 wks

[@yeetleek3905]

@@zyxwvutsafara Well did ya 🤣

[@maxkarmelich5292]

I remember watching these videos back when I started considering the army. Just graduated bootcamp. Great decision

[@samanthadalke1860]

max karmelich Jesus loves you

[@alfonsocastro8239]

Nice Man

[@我不会中文-r6g]

Did you remember any of it while you was in basic

[@SouthernGntlmn]

Best way to break in new boots is to shower with them on barefoot as soon as you can so they mold to your feet. Best advice I ever got. (Ex Ranger, 11B, 06-12)

[@MrKeith8885]

if I ever have the nerve to get new basic issues boots again I’ll try that. I just double sock n moleskin prior to rucking

[@maxjboy]

Doesn't work with steel toe ones though

[@paulmonteleone7149]

@@MrKeith8885 matt suggested in this video that 2 pairs causes more foot perspiration and will cause problems;to stick with just one good pair.

[@Avxach.]

Won't it smell though?

[@brennantx]

Jordan Chen of course it’s gonna smell 😂 what kind of question is that everything probably will smell in basic

[@StormySky48]

Timestamp List: 1:43, 2:49, 3:59, 5:30, 6:40, 7:51, 8:40, 11:14 Hope this helps for who need to skim and for those last minute tips before basic

[@Deuces0810]

Thank you so much

[@romandude7740]

Thanks

[@PaccManXL]

You’re a recruits best friend

[@longshot7064]

Yeah

[@samanthadalke1860]

2Rare Mikeyy God loves you

[@blueheat7245]

Definitely, he gives all of the good tips that can help a noobie survive.

[@dillonbelcher1521]

Facts

[@octoberward3243]

definitely my bestie atm

[@2111jade]

Me:Should I wear two pairs of socks? Matt:Do not wear two pairs of socks. 4:10 ish Me:*deletes comment.*

[@adamdavanna6229]

Domino_Emery It really depends on the type of sock. If possible, wear a thinner pair with a normal pair. It means that the socks are rubbing against each other, not your feet. Of course everyone’s bodies are different, this just works for me.

[@SapperSometimes]

Our DS’s always told us to wear the dress socks under our normal green socks and that’s really helped in my opinion.

[@mrsnezbit2219]

@@adamdavanna6229 cotton socks in 100%whool socks always save my feet

[@TealJosh]

During my conscription I wore 2 pairs of socks at all times while wearing boots. I had small issues in the very beginning with blisters.

[@walkermaxfield1808]

Rory_Emery Rory

[@WhoWouldWantThisName]

In preparation for enlistment, I think running on sand is a great way to build up your running. In Basic we ran on sand tracks for our regular PT tests to gauge our progress, then for our final APFT we ran on a compressed, rubber one made of recycled tires. Man what a difference. We cut over two minutes, on average, off our run times from running on sand. If you can do it in passing time on sand, you will have a far higher score when you run on a decent track. It's just great exercise when you have that moving surface beneath you. Sort of a different subject but slightly related, I think.

[@josephblanchard8351]

WhoWouldWantThisName this super smart actually

[@wildchicken679]

I live on the beach so will do. 👍

[@johnnyellis5324]

Great for people who struggle with shin splints like myself. Just make sure you stretch your calves and Achilles ideally after warming up and after the run.

[@datboi1026]

Jersey Shore sand is deep. There’s a reason why school sports teams hold beach runs in the summer, and the reason is for fitness.

[@AndrewL123]

I personally find having a DD214 to be extremely helpful in avoiding injuries related to rucking. It really helps take the load off of your shoulders and transfers said weight to some other poor private.

[@duckeducator6873]

This guy....that is the funniest thing I have ever read. And it's true!

[@remysmusic1565]

When doing basics in South Africa in the 80's I put on my boots without tying the laces, stood in a bucket of water submerging the boots completely, then tied the laces, and walked with the boots for the rest of the day like that (This was the very next morning after gear was issued), to form the boot to my foot. After it dried the boot fit perfectly and I did not have any issues with blisters. Some guys wore womans silk stockings under their socks to minimize friction and they seemed happy with the outcome. If you were unlucky enough to get blisters and it was picked up during foot inspection after each ruck the medic came over and injected the blister with methiolate, it would burn like pouring acid on a open wound for about 20 seconds but would dry out the blister and the moment the burn stops the skin hardens, and the open nerve endings gets closed, you 100% good to go after, like you never had a blister.

[@inhqvoid8920]

Only if I saw this before my 12 mile ruck to honor hill 😂😭

[@DougEFresh289]

InHQ Void 12? we did 25

[@jackmccollum6632]

What's the difference between a 'ruck' and a normal fast paced walk?

[@DougEFresh289]

Jack McC a ruck is with a ruck on your back

[@MrTypicalPlayer]

@@DougEFresh289 If Drill Sergeants told you that it's most likely not true.

[@DougEFresh289]

BallsDeepInCereal. nah, for me I have this store by my house exactly a mile away. So I kinda have an idea how long it takes for that. I kind "did the math" i guess u can say and based on the time we started and got done and kinda figuring for how long we would stop, and go to the side of the road and all that, its by no means an exact number. But I would say maybe within 4/5 miles. But I get your point - its the exact reason we were all trying to figure out exactly how long it was gonna be, and what made me even think to keep some kind of track.

[@connormurphy1964]

If you're going to Jackson, prepare for 50mi+. My company did 56. You won't have any issues if your boots fit right so make sure your boots fit well before they issue the to you at reception.

[@Taylor_bp24]

Connor Murphy 😭😭😭

[@etanusmaskianus1916]

TBP Vlogs you’ll be fine

[@Taylor_bp24]

Etanus Maskianus i know lol

[@etanusmaskianus1916]

TBP Vlogs 😂

[@bobbuileer3789]

My father 16 years in the army told me just 2 things when I joined. He said first make sure your boots fit. Don't let them rush you through that part of the line. Take the smoking and screaming if you have to try on 15 pairs of boots do it. I only had to try 5 before I got the right fit but thank God i did. It was well worth the hour smoking I recieved for "holding up the line" the whole time being screamed at that I was being picky and wasting the armies time..That combined with dry socks and i didn't get 1 blister during basic. While other guys that took the first pair that kinda fit were left using mole skin and constantly having their heels and the backs of their feet fall off.The other was save everything medical that happens to you. Sick call for a cut save it. Sick call for a feaver save it. Any injuries make sure they are well documented and you have a copy. He served 16 years and his back is completely screwed....6 to 8 surgeries to fix everything that's wrong and surgeons wont touch him for fear of paralysis when hes only got 5 to 10 more years of walking left. The recovery time would be 2 years laying facedown in a hospital bed... He was separated with 20% a pat on the back and a check for 4k. I served 3 years before an injury led to my separation but since I had every little injury and thing documented I was able to squeeze a 30% tdrl. All the documentation made the VA process much easier as well and got me a higher rating. I've seen guys that have it much worse but because of their pride they brushed it and walked it off and are now fighting the VA to get anything for their disabilities... hell I know a guy with PTSD so bad from his tour in Afghanistan with marines as doc that he has flashbacks and pisses himself and literally relives the couple of close call moments and the va denied him several times because while In service he said he was fine and never sought help for the anxiety and flashbacks he was having. So they said it wasnt service connected due to no documentation during service...Swallow your pride or the government will find any way not to give you what you deserve for giving up your body and sanity.

[@Leeav]

Quick Notes: - Alternate boots so you break into both. - Never use double socks - Use wool socks - Cut your toenails - Use foot powder (not too much)

[@Ali-dp8ng]

in the past day ive watched like 20 of your videos, ive wanted to go to the army since i was 10 and im 16 now and started going to the gym 5 days a week to prepare. super thankful for your videos. thank you.

[@mjv4009]

Hows the progress?

[@justanothergrunt9053]

Don’t injure yourself. You’re young to be training that hard.

[@mjv4009]

@@justanothergrunt9053 that's not hard , if he/she is doing it in a correct schedule and hits different parts of the body every day it's fine, ifs actually pretty good to be that active, I train 5 days a week and for 2 days out of the week I train 2 times a day , you just need to have a good intake to keep you fueled and strong

[@justanothergrunt9053]

MJV aight bro just make sure your form is solid.

[@myda9733]

Your probably 18 by now, did you end up enlisting yet? If so how is it!

[@anemonespotted189]

My feet never really had issues, it was my thighs chafing really bad. Pro tip: buy compression shorts on your first px run

[@evandavis1423]

Anemone Spotted is there a place to buy all this stuff like compression shorts and all that

[@stephenjames2170]

you truly are helping so many men and women, myself included, through this crazy process and experience. Thank you man, seriously

[@ericloya6943]

I’m literally on the bus to Fort Benning right now watching this, thanks alot

[@dtay2244]

Now I know it’s been two years since you commented this but I’m leaving for Fort Benning in October any advice you could pass down to me possibly?

[@MegaKla88]

Thanks for the great videos, Lt. Ward! I’m going to BCT in May, 09S program with the Montana National Guard. I’m older and a female, and a Mom, so I have a lot of thoughts and emotions going into basic and your videos are helping me prep mentally and physically!

[@Trojan2000]

I leave June 10th 2019 for Paris island and I’m starting to watch these videos so I can prepare thank you for taking the time to give out these tips

[@RedSliceGaming34]

Im not even interested in joining the military but I still always come back to watch these videos they are super satisfying to watch keep it up brother. Thanks for your service and continue on MURICA

[@Froz0nPh0enix]

In basic, around about 80% of all injuries were coming from feet/ ankle problems. The other 20% was leg and hip problems

[@KatieDurrant]

My sit now has swollen feet... in recovery

[@moisesvillanueva2061]

You're the go to guy for anyone looking to enlist. You advice and give the information the you don't find elsewhere. At least that's my case. I'm losing weight right now, Been walking a mile and a half everyday with a 25lb vest, and Inclination 5. For the past 5 days, I started out of breath. Now I do it without any issue. I also run another mile without the vest. I hope I can make the weight, cause I'm dying to join. I'm 22, did college, didn't finish cause of things that weren't under my control, But I accumulated over 100 credits. And I did it just so I could join. I had score on he ASVAB of 45, I wanted more but that enough. I haven't decided if I want to join Infrantey or cavalry scout. And I be honest, your videos have helped a lot, mostly mentally, and also given me motivation and assurance. Thank you!

[@markbalcarcel2361]

Literally did my first ruck today and then I whip my phone out and see this 😂. I am happy to say that my feet survived

[@RyanMintz]

How do you have your phone? Or are you not in bct?

[@markbalcarcel2361]

Ryan Mintz ROTC

[@blazingocean4206]

@@markbalcarcel2361 what's that?

[@RyanMintz]

@@markbalcarcel2361 Ohh that makes sense lol

[@johnathanjackson3293]

Mark Balcarcel reserve office training corps

[@dylanhelmsd1281]

I plan on joining the army when i get out of high school and this videos are going too help a lot

[@bruh1077]

DD Helms start running now

[@grsimpson3957]

@@bruh1077 I wanted to join the Marines and I've been running, working out and the occasional wrestling and Brazilian Ju Jitsu

[@efface6264]

@@grsimpson3957 usmc bootcamp isnt too too bad

[@sethnoeske5455]

@@efface6264 what is the px situation in the marines. I want to enlist and would like to know. I have heard about the army px but not the marine corps boot camp px

[@efface6264]

@@sethnoeske5455 you will go to the px when you guys get haircuts

[@emilyfunk8658]

watching your videos has made me want to get in shape and prepare better so starting this week im going to do PT with my recruiters i knew nothing about army basic before i found this channel thank you for giving information that could change boot camp and help me succeed

[@davidt.3860]

Stopping by to say hi. Thank you for all the tips you've given us Matt.

[@MattWard89]

Heyyyyy

[@davidt.3860]

@@MattWard89 I actually have a question, if that's all right to ask. So recently, I sent my information over to the national guard, and that information was sent to my local recruiter. It's been about a week since this has happened, so am I supposed to call him? Or do I have to just have patience? Thank you once again!

[@jadendeason5858]

@@davidt.3860 They SHOULD contact you. If they dont within one to two weeks go ahead and give em a call. If you received a card from one of the recruiters, call that number

[@davidt.3860]

@@jadendeason5858 Will do, thank you for the response.

[@captaincarl1603]

Great video with good tips! In the Swedish Army the soldiers pick up their boots 5 weeks before arriving at boot camp. They get a hiking regime to complete at home so that both their feet and boots are already broken in when they arrive at boot camp. Cheers from Sweden!

[@mckizzy2217]

I just finished completing a 12 mile ruck. Wish i saw this beforehand.

[@johnpkang]

When I joined back in 2003 I never ran or did any rucking prior to basic training. I could barely run a mile at the time. But on our last pt test I got an award for having the highest pt score. The army will build you up. Just have the mental fortitude and you will be fine.

[@dragonkiller1270]

Thanks for the tips Matt, i leave in Jan 14, 2019. Ft Jackson.

[@austinrasmussen3373]

HDReaper I might be there with you, not set on a date yet, but i was told some time in January

[@TristanHarrison]

Me too man!

[@elliotsalem8028]

Dude what's your mos? I leave November 19, 2018 to Fort Jackson im 91b

[@jpoltv9708]

I am leaving Jan or feb for 11B not sure the exact date yet

[@dragonkiller1270]

@@elliotsalem8028nice, i got 92Y.

[@joelburch6018]

We made it boys! Graduated two days ago and now I’m here at reception at fort Lewis.

[@TheNewFitness]

Also wash your feet and wear shower shoes. Blisters make you more prone to ring worm, etc. I made sure to wear shower shoes no matter what and was glad I did

[@justusrosas502]

I actually do marine training at home. I tried joining the Marines but was denied. It sucks but now my training will prepare me for the worst. This video was very helpful thanks brother.

[@noahperdue9373]

I just graduated basic and honestly my advice is to MAKE SURE THE BOOTS FIT, Also ALWAYS USE A LOT OF FOOT POWDER, make sure your socks are always fresh and dry, don’t buy the insoles at the PX, soft soles make for soft feet, and make sure you know the signs of a blister and stop them EARLY

[@-redacted-2214]

How do you stop a blister early?

[@Ayylmao2437]

In the Canadian military we are issued the two sock system, honestly they are the best socks I've ever used. Never gotten blisters wearing them

[@instridewith_life]

Thankfully I wear boots daily and am constantly walking for my work, I feel I wont have to worry as much about blisters! Buy bandaids so if you do get a blister you can cover it! I always do this and it help so much.

[@carsonjodrey3809]

I was about to comment this

[@timruskowski4923]

I’ll never forget the day I did a 13 mile ruck with my ROTC battalion. Never did a ruck or looked up how to do one beforehand. Filled up my ruck with water and snacks to keep myself fueled. Weighed 45 pounds with other stuff mixed in. My time was 3 hours 12 minutes which I thought was pretty good lol. Surprisingly didn’t bleed through my boots

[@OffDuty]

Off topic, but that shirt is NICE!

[@surillion7741]

Off Duty I was thinking the same a lot of shirts are well designed.

[@2111jade]

Agreed.

[@BassFlapper]

Great video, wish I'd watched it BEFORE going into my military uni entrance exams...

[@andrewgreen626]

I’m an Eagle Scout and I can say that foot powder and mole skin are clutch. Something that I would do when backpacking and hiking 10+ miles a day is put a piece of moleskin on spots that I would commonly get hot spots to keep it from happening in the first place. Also I leave for Air Force basic in a month😁

[@blu_pitbull2751]

Your videos helped me pass basic, you’re the best my guy!

[@furryfriendification]

The best thing about army is they give you a pack, webbing, food and a sleeping bag to go camping, and get paid to do it. WOW I in the wrong job, pizza delivery sucks $2.95 an hr and no gear....

[@WhoWouldWantThisName]

Where the hell do you live that minimum wage is $2.95? Also, that is far from the best thing about the Army. The best things are those that last your whole life. I still find myself missing it and a bit frustrated with civilians. For me it was the culture of the military that was the best thing. The strong and positive attitude and team based nature of it all. No selfishness tolerated and high standards expected for everything you do. By the time you graduate AIT nobody has to pick up or cover up for anyone else. Grown-ups and professionals all around you. Hell yeah, that's what I miss most. :) Nothing wrong with camping and hiking though.

[@johnny2x924]

WhoWouldWantThisName no a pizza delivery driver gets paid less than minimum wage because of tips. When you go out to eat some restaurants pay you 2 dollars. I worked at dominos and got paid 7 even as a assistant manager but I still drove

[@JosephWheeler14]

Johnny 2x you only get paid less if you don’t declare your tips. You are legally entitled to at least the minimum wage on every state.

[@rajarshibasu7848]

There once was a desk sergeant who moonlights as a pizza delivery driver in Drum

[@Murloc999]

In Sweden we use 2 socks because it eliminates a LOT of friction between your feet and the boots. The friction will instead be in between the socks. Sweden is a cold country though so I guess that is the difference.

[@ruthlessofficial_]

Remember to change your socks 👍 But, most importantly above all.... Hydrate...

[@psgsense5357]

I love it

[@TealJosh]

In Finland we had a joke that no matter how sick you are. If you go to sick call, no matter how sick you are, they tell you to change your socks and hydrate. That was not the case in my experience, but funny joke nonetheless.

[@SariennMusic73]

probably one of two things i fully recall from bct way back in 03 HYDRATION FORMAAAAAAATIONNNNNNNNNNN the other was anything which included a hatefilled glare with a bellowed, "DOGGONE..... PRIVATE....... DOGGGGGGG GONNNNNNNE!!!!" with whatever in between. My DS all loved the Doggone word because they couldn't cuss at us back then. Unsure how it is now, haha.

[@Mattropolis97]

I was hoping the bottom words would be funnier when I clicked to read them

[@Niko-qk3su]

Wool, especially thick, thickest wool socks available, extra cold winter wool socks are the best all year round. I was wearing those on deployment at 100F heat and it was super comfortable. Those socks are like wicking towel on the inside, but they don't hold water, drain and dry super fast.

[@joshuarobinson4618]

We just got our boots for JROTC and we got a 15 mile ruck in 5 days and I need to break them in quick and prepare my feet. This helped a lot, thank you

[@shanesmith5027]

That Feeling When a National Guard patch doesnt have a pin through it, but the 101st Airborne Patch does

[@impasse343]

Thank you for all the excellent videos, you’ve helped a lot. I have ceremony tomorrow and fly to Benning Tuesday.

[@XAlted1]

I haven't done much hiking but I've done a lot of running because of track, barefoot on a track and what not, I walk on my toes too because of track haha. I'm going through all your videos cause I plan to join the army in January

[@Autumnlight91]

I will once I lose the weight. 20 more pounds...

[@SuperDvdvideo]

You and me both Brandon

[@duckeducator6873]

Basic Training must have changed. I had ZERO choices about the old black recruit boot in 1990 at Fort Jackson. They threw the two pairs of SIZE 9 1/2 boots in my chest after the most brief foot sizing I ever had. We had those old wool socks. My blisters had blisters, and my feet did bleed! Drill Sergeant told me to put my black dress socks inside of my wool socks, and use moleskin. I had to buy that out of pocket at the PX. The alternating boots was a good idea--we had to put white dots on our boots to make sure we were rotating them. That was the best advice I ever got.

[@Dev_Six]

Pro tip: Surgery tape. Tape your toes, heels and bottoms of the feet. Remove the tape after march. Wash the feet, or they'll get infected.

[@Dylan-lw1xc]

Thank you for keeping it simple

[@Dev_Six]

@@Dylan-lw1xc It's not really all that complicated. Matt gave good suggestions, and that's what I learned in the Finnish army myself.

[@Dev_Six]

Sports tape works as well.

[@giovannilove2188]

I doubt you could even be allowed to use that at basic.

[@100GTAGUY]

Ive never used surgical tape, but I wonder if they could get any moleskin. Stuff works wonders from my experience.

[@brianbritton3175]

I wore two pairs of socks every day, even after the army, in my work boots, one real thin pair, one thinker pair. Never had a blister, or any other issues. In basic we used our dress socks under our boot socks.

[@michaelgutierrez8404]

Thanks matt really helped

[@lPridel]

I've joined in 2012 and have never thought about the physical aspect as I've never ran or even rucked/hiked. I still made it tho, been out the army for a year now discharged honorably :)

[@angelsauceda7443]

Thanks Matt , I’m leaving Jan 7,2019 11x infantry

[@derpman116]

Thank you for this video, I am heading off to basic training tomorrow so I need this so I can take care of myself properly

[@TheMichaelStott]

Even though I was Australian Army for 18 years your advice was absolutely correct for universal foot care. One thing I might add is that the reason why you raise your feet is that pack marching (Rucking) you will get swelling in you feet so this is a great idea to do but don't rest cross legged with one of your feet over the other you'll be constricting the blood flow on the bottom foot.

[@olegandrushchenko1082]

I’m looking to enlist soon as MP and your videos help me so much. My girlfriend went through basic training last year as well

[@chrisandrews5044]

Lt Dan: cautioned soul and OD green socks! Two standing orders in this platoon! One, take care of your feet, and don't do anything stupid like gettin yourself killed...

[@goldminegaming6242]

Feb 4 I got my end march, 100kilometers [60miles] in 5 days with water crossing. Tip: After marching, get a bowl of ice cold water and put both feet in. This will harden your feet

[@chasemoore1421]

Thank you. I've got a 6 mile ruck coming up.

[@GeorgeK1410]

2LT Ward, I’m just putting this out there because I am not sure if you’re tracking, but I just finished BCT on Sand Hill, and we were one of the first cycles they allowed privates to buy better boots at the shopette. Huge game changer.

[@diesel1896]

Yo you 1-50 ? I was in bravo company

[@GeorgeK1410]

matthew vanloo I was in 2-47 C Co

[@surillion7741]

You should do a "Dont be a fool" uplifting/motivational video for basic training.

[@SupportingThaKingz]

Your videos helped me and my twin get through basic

[@Douknowgregg]

I remember when I went through Airforce basic I always tied my boots pretty tight never got blisters or any other issues other people did they'd ask how I don't get em I said just tie your boots tight

[@macburger5026]

Greg G Of course you lucky folks in Air Force BMT don't have to do ruck marches anyway like the two green branches (Army and Marines) do.

[@BladeRunner385]

mac burger depends on your afsc. All the SOF afsc’s have to ruck.

[@FreezingInSun]

Started basic on 5 Nov. We were issued socks and sock liners that our DS actually recommended wearing. They’re very thin black socks that most people think are for the dress uniform. They really do help, I haven’t had one blister yet.

[@Zaku186]

I had a blister that was the entire back of my heel and bleeding bad. i drained it and put two sheets of mole skin on it and after it went numb it was fine. moleskin is awesome stuff.

[@tijnjansen858]

Endex next week, 8 mile ruckmarch to the finish on Friday. Thanks for the video.

[@ttman6197]

You should become a recruiter you do a very good job

[@Daytonian17]

Man I’ve watched every one of your videos sir , I’m 29 about to finally make my enlistment. I don’t feel I’m too late . I feel like I didn’t go early enough . God keep me solid, Im healthy GoArmy Someday hopefully becoming a 75th Ranger 🇺🇸 Only one in my family generation making the sacrifice . I do have to forfeit my rights to my son… but our bond cannot be written down . My Rights over him is never told to me from any state

[@FoeHammer016]

Shipping out to Ft. Lost in the Woods on Tuesday. I'll give these tips a try and pray they work.

[@abelramirez7320]

We have the same ship out date and location!

[@FoeHammer016]

@@abelramirez7320 Nice! I'll keep my eye out in case we run into each other.

[@thatoneguy1741]

I graduated from Leonard Wood Oct 25th, god bless your soul, cause you're gonna be freezing, and hope you get Fox Company 1-48 hehehe

[@FoeHammer016]

13 Fox Beast crap...I was afraid of that. How good are they about authorizing winter gear for wearing?

[@jadajules8174]

Me too!

[@shinn631]

I’ll be graduating high school in 2020 I’m excited and nervous for boot camp these are great tips I’ll try to go hiking before the summer ends

[@orioncgaming720]

Kevin Hernandez ayeeee same here! What state are ya in?

[@mrducky2915]

Kinda wonder if you could stick one of those anti moisture packets from jerky in your boot.

[@orioncgaming720]

Mr Ducky it’s big brain time

[@DG_2725]

What’s up man! Just finished graduated basic training and I found female pads worked the best for my feet

[@reshaundradixon1993]

Recruiters don't tell you how to prepare for basic training that's number one rule

[@KingofgraceSARA]

Hi Matt, would you be able to add to your already very informative videos, how the soldier's in training can protect themselves from frostbite. My dear son has it on his toe from Fort Leonard Wood's winter. Thanks a bunch. Lots of love to you. Blessings to the Ward's.

[@CausticNinja]

He has to keep his feet dry, make sure he changes his socks multiple times if necessary like Matt said. Again like Matt said wool socks.

[@WhoWouldWantThisName]

Is he in Basic Training there or something else? If he hasn't already done so, he needs to go to sick call. If he's in BCT he may be very weary of doing so out of fear of getting recycled, but he needs to take that seriously. A Med profile or prescription allowing him alternative socks or something might make all the difference. Bless your family, and best wishes to your son. I went through BCT there as well and it amazed me how cold it got at night. Washington state isn't as cold as that was down in the south.

[@stealth1548]

Decided to wear two pairs of socks right before the bayonet march. My feet have never been so shredded before by the time it was over. 17 miles.

[@stanleysuazo-ravelo2866]

when i was in basic what i did was i wore dress socks under my green socks and put some vaseline in between my toes

[@anthonyvu749]

Stanley did it help? what about the heel?

[@n3v3rforgott3n9]

@@anthonyvu749 the dress socks under the normal socks does work quite well honestly but if u just build up your feet u wont get bad blisters (i had blisters early on is BCT but no blisters after the 10 mile ruck)

[@anthonyvu749]

N3V3R FORGOTT3N thanks for the tips, i plan on joining the military but don’t know what branch. i was thinking air force but they don’t do ruck marches

[@n3v3rforgott3n9]

@@anthonyvu749 i joined nat guard because of a few issues with HS and they were the quickest or gave route to get it done quickly which all fell thru anyway lol for which branch to join is really up to what u want out of the military and your long term goals. i can say though is dont go nat guard unless u only plan to use the military to pay for school and dont want to do your schooling later or want to do school full time

[@anthonyvu749]

N3V3R FORGOTT3N I want to get an education in the military, I kinda want to become a pilot but don’t know if that will happen I’m still thinking about it and asking around for peoples help

[@reez3795]

Never served, but I do a lot of hiking. Vaseline on your feet and wool socks help a lot.

[@donotneed2250]

Between 1974 and 1981 I was stationed on Fort Benning, GA, three times. Twice with the 197th Infantry Brigade and we had classes. Spring rolls around we had summer weather classes. Falls rolls in and yes, we had winter weather classes. They covered how to care for our bodies and if you were assigned a vehicle, how to care for it too. I just don't believe I had to explain one day to my sister why my feet were white after I had taken my shoes & socks off.

[@danielkliemczak3450]

About two pairs os socks... Instead, if you use a cotton one Directly in your feet and one synthetic fabric on top can help to maintain your feet dry... The synthetic fabric help to pull the moisture from the cotton keeping your feet dry.

[@justenrey8972]

First time we did a ruck march in basic I got my feet ate up! The second time I heard if u wear dress shoes socks (class A black ones) under the regular green socks it helps with the friction and it definitely worked for me, and also definitely definitely wear pt spandex under your boxers because your thighs will rub against each other allot and I've seen guys have big ol red Burns hardcore and guys use bengay on it in the night and screamed like a girl! Lol good times good times great video tho bro

[@huntermadden2619]

At reception right now in fort Jackson, start bct tomorrow morning, this video is a big help, thanks Matt!

[@Proxyudai]

Best of luck man!

[@tryhardsmokey4435]

9:50. “If you have some hot stuff developing.” Well in that case, you got more than just your feet to worry about

[@Adventurer_likeu]

Two socks works by putting a pair of the thin ASU socks under the issued green socks. It works the same as any sort of commercial hiking sock liner I've used - helps pull moisture away from the skin and creates a low-friction barrier between your foot and the awful green socks you get initially. Just keep one set of ASU socks as a clean, good pair for inspections, the rest I used as liners during the rucks along with foot powder and never had a hot spot or blister all of Basic.

[@joeairbender267]

Hey, ty for your advices. Im 24 with a college diploma in Canada and I want to join the Navy. Im fat, but I started to run outside even when its full of snow and with me being overweight, I can easily get injury. I hope they accept me! :)

[@dingo5208]

There's tonnes (pun intended) of fat navy guys. You'll be fine.

[@Camtronzz]

This might be weird but fr, make sure your boots are tied very good. I only got blisters when my boots would come untied and then my feet would shuffle around more in my boots

[@DapperSapper515]

I leave January 2nd, for Fort Leonard Wood! 12 Bravo, Combat Engineer. Thanks for the tips.

[@DapperSapper515]

I'm assuming I have the new 12 week long basic?

[@brandonrussell4032]

I leave for Fort Leonard Wood January 9th for 31B!

[@DapperSapper515]

@@brandonrussell4032 do you have the new 12 week long basic? I wanted MP but it wasn't available lol

[@brandonrussell4032]

To my knowledge no @Christopher Steiner

[@DapperSapper515]

@@brandonrussell4032 my recruiter said it is put into phase October 1st, of 2018. So I assume we do? Lol

[@stuff485]

when you brought up ultranating bouts it reminded me of bmq. In the Canadian Military's basic training they made us number the two sets of bouts that we were issued so that in inspections thay could tel if you were changing what bouts you wore or not.

[@jamesmerone]

Does this apply to the Air Force as well? I'm about to enlist.

[@MattWard89]

Air Force doesn't ruck.......

[@smokeylebear1062]

Lol chair force

[@DS-wo8wr]

You shouldn’t get blisters walking to the chow hall...

[@WhoWouldWantThisName]

In all seriousness, to a much lesser degree, yes. It is always advisable to pay close attention to your feet as you will be on them a lot regardless of branch you join, especially in your IET days. While you break in your boots, your boots will be breaking in your feet, and ankles. If you get well fitted boots you probably won't ever need moleskin or anything like that. If your feet are hurting it will be distracting you from everything else and you will be having a rougher time with everything you do. Just getting along with others and the stress of BMT life will be tougher if you are already irritable because of your aching feet. Good socks, also important, and if you get them wet, change them ASAP.

[@DapperSapper515]

I'm sorry, you just got roasted by Matt. That was a little funny.

[@hastielikepasties3152]

Cheap insoles are pretty good to put into the boots as well. They always work for me making the boots comfy and not causing blisters

[@jaycowper]

You know, going off of what he said. The first time you get to go to the Shopette for your resupply and haircut, if you have the opportunity purchase a pair of FoxRiver military maximum socks. They make a world of difference. I was a lot like the recruit you described, who quit during reception. I hadn't ran, hadn't done anything. I was weak as can be. I just didn't quit. Went through BCT a few years ago, but yeah I just didn't quit. My Drill Sergeant did recommend wearing your black dress socks underneath your green socks, and I did that and it was fine. IDK if that was just some placebo effect or not, but worth trying.

[@k_3bd691]

I’ll definitely keep these tips in mind, my mos is a scout, and I ship out to basic on Oct 22

[@carlosr.5971]

The picture of the feet in the thumbnail.... is that real?? 😨😨

[@trevon5653]

Yes

[@MattWard89]

Yepp

[@abepeterson]

It's more common at Bootcamp than it should be

[@theanc316ientone]

happened to mine in firefighting

[@josephgaming8213]

Charles Rivers yes

[@wuldntuliktonoptb6861]

We only got the one pair of summer boots and were never able to use the winter boots we got. They were just added weight for rucking.

[@WhoWouldWantThisName]

I don't know if you can get this, or use it, in BCT but I use Aloe gel for healing everything. I'm a very nature focused kind of guy. So I avoid un-natural solutions in favor of natural one's where possible. So if you develop athlete's foot or just have some hot spots, etc., putting this on before you put on your socks might help.

[@WhoWouldWantThisName]

@@kevinsedwards I didn't call anything in particular "unnatural". I'm just saying that Aloe works better than anything else I have seen for healing your body. Since anything can be absorbed into the body, from your skin, I prefer to use things that are completely safe to use internally when possible. So long as nothing toxic is added Aloe can be ingested safely, and is even medicinal in that application as well.

[@Dover939]

@@WhoWouldWantThisName aloe doesn't "heal" anything, it soothes it but it's not some magical gel that repairs injuries. also if you get aloe gel from most major retailers it often has very little to no aloe in it at all

[@WhoWouldWantThisName]

@@Dover939 Absolutely false. It DOES heal and yes you need a high concentration of actual ALOE. I buy `Lily Of The Desert', 99% Aloe gel, and it is amazing stuff. My family first learned about it from Hawaiians when I was a kid, and it certainly does heal. It's all around great for your skin and there are Aloe products pure enough to use internally. I have some I add to my blended smoothie I drink everyday as it is good for the digestive system.

[@Dover939]

@@WhoWouldWantThisName It does not heal. It moisturizes the affected area, which can help the healing process begin, but it's your body and your body alone healing. If you love aloe so much, why not grow it? Nearly every part of the plant is edible. Nothing pure about it, it's a food item.

[@100GTAGUY]

Go for a a bunch walks barefoot six months prior to even think about enlisting. Walk on a variety of terrain, until you start developing blisters everywhere, treat them properly and after some time you'll have callouses you can cut off like gyro meat. I was stranded twenty miles from home due to a family squabble with no shoes, shirt or belt, had to walk home through Florida jungle and gravel farm roads till I hit some paved roads baking in the sun on a 105° day. By the time I got home my feet looked like I had dipped them in boiling water and then walked across hot coals, never seen a blister that was thicker than my thumb or as unsightly as those on my body until that day. Took a few weeks to get healed fully before I could walk without clenching my teeth and hissing, and i decided to continue doing barefoot walks just over a much shorter distance. I haven't gotten another blister since, and as ugly as callouses can be its totally worth it.

[@101jonjon]

Not first but here 👀👀

[@MattWard89]

Glad to see you!

[@aarontheman4597]

I have to stick by my two pair sock method, I work roofing and carpentry in Buffalo NY and let me tell you, a super tight Nike sport sock, synthetic, over heavy woolen socks. The first layer is the important bit, needs to be second skin.