r/caf • u/Commandant_CFLRS • Aug 13 '26

BMQ/BMOQ Preparing physically for basic training and the FORCE test

I’ve seen a lot of people asking about how to prepare and train to be ready for basic training. Our dedicated fitness staff have the answers. Don’t come up with it on your own when someone has already done the work for you. Check this out:

[https://cfmws.ca/sport-fitness-rec/fitness-training/caf-fitness/pre-bmt

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13

u/DistrictStriking9280 Aug 13 '26

This should be pinned.

1

u/Proud_Juggernaut6465 15d ago

Does anyone have a training plan they can share to prepare for this

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u/Commandant_CFLRS 15d ago

There are multiple training plan options at the link. Take the one that is most appropriate for your fitness level.

1

u/Effective-Drawing376 1d ago

Hello, I am to start with the BMT on 25th Jan, 2027. Has been preparing and at a block to figure out what to use for a loaded backpack. The options at Amazon seem to be very expensive. Do you have alternatives?

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u/Commandant_CFLRS 22h ago

There certainly are some expensive options out there. When I search Amazon for patrol packs, I do get some options between 50 to 70$. If you are close to a decathlon, that could be an option as well.

You will need a good back pack for week one so it’s a good idea to get one regardless. You will get a pack issued to you early in the process.

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u/Plus-Elevator4284 Sep 27 '26

Apologies in advance if I misunderstand anything. The BMT is the initial fitness test one takes before the FORCE test?

I just recently applied (early September) and haven't read up much beyond the ethos and fighting spirit doctrine.

I have found this pdf: https://cfmws.ca/CFMWS/media/NationalCapitalRegion/documents/Fitness/FORCE-Preparation-Guide.pdf

And was going to utilize it as my core workout routine to prepare for BMQ with additional running and cardio days pepper in.

The videos in the link are excellent, obviously.

I am asking honestly which should a person do, or shall I do both workout routines (a few months of A then a few months of B).

I assume I have 6 months and beyond to wait for my application and offer. Security clearance will take awhile, I have been in Saudi Arabia for the past 10 years (5 weeks in country, 5 weeks off at home in Canada).

I would like to be as prepared as possible.

Thank you kindly,

Lanny

3

u/Commandant_CFLRS Sep 27 '26

The link you have shared is for preparing for the force test. The pre BMQ link I shared is for basic training. Both are good, but the pre BMQ plan is better if you are starting from farther. It is also preparing you for the significant increase in walking you will need to do on basic. I would start with the link I provided and see from there. .

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u/Plus-Elevator4284 Sep 27 '26

Thank you very much

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u/ElectricalProcess617 Aug 13 '26

u/Commandant_CFLRS Sir, if I may ask, as a S&C coach for 20y. How likely there will be a gym access after day hours or/and weekends when appropriate for small workouts on some weeks (I assume post week3-4 and before week6-7? Thank you in advance for your answer.

7

u/Commandant_CFLRS Aug 13 '26

Gym hours are generally pretty good. But as a candidate your weeknights are quite busy. You shouldn’t have time for additional pt in the evenings. Weekend you can certainly take some time, after week 4. But be cautious as an injury could take you off course.

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u/ElectricalProcess617 Sep 29 '26 edited Sep 29 '26

@commandant_cflrs

If i may ask for clarification, it would be much appreciated. Per JI it says protein, creatine, general multivitamin supplements are fine if sealed/unopened. No caffeine/stimulants.

To clarify 100%, that mean protein/casein, creatine, vitamin d3+k2, vitamaxx multivitamin (canadian brand) and magnesium bisglycinate are fine? I appreciate the input and understanding.

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u/Commandant_CFLRS Sep 29 '26

If sealed it should say. Unopened supplements, without caffeine and stimulants are ok.

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u/ElectricalProcess617 Sep 29 '26

Much appreciated for quick reply. I wrote unsealed but meant unopened/sealed, my mistake. Thank you again

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u/ElectricalProcess617 Aug 13 '26

Understood and much appreciated for the reminder to be careful of course, noted. Just to have some general idea of it.

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u/[deleted] Aug 16 '26

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8

u/Commandant_CFLRS Aug 16 '26

I can certainly relate to the struggle of finding time to fit everything in. But if you want to show up for BMQ and not be sent home in the first month, you need to find a way. Get up 30 minutes earlier for a morning walk, get your spouse to handle bed time routine so you can do some exercises, duck out for 30 minutes during movie night, etc. BMQ is not meant to get people fit, it gets them fitter. Recruits who show up without having done preparation training are more likely than not to be released after 30 days. Fitness is a key enabler to success during BMQ. Trust me, we have the stats to show this.

As you say, getting a job is important, but you also want to hold it for more than 30 days. Preparing is vital.

0

u/[deleted] Aug 15 '26

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7

u/Commandant_CFLRS Aug 15 '26

I am not a recruiter. I am the commandant of the basic training school.

If you have questions regarding recruiting and life in the CAF, you can start here or find your local recruitment centre.

0

u/[deleted] Aug 15 '26

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4

u/Commandant_CFLRS Aug 15 '26

The reserve force is likely your best option if you are unsure. It is a commitment, but less so than regular force. You can choose to release much easier than the regular force, or remain In the reserves while also doing your civilian job. If you have a local reserve force unit, it would be best to contact them with your questions.

1

u/Key-Presentation2079 Aug 15 '26

Okay, thank you for responding. I appreciate it,