An Cosantóir

www.military.ie the defence forces magazine | 19 successful completion earns a Level 6 degree in exercise and fitness from the University of Limerick. The military fitness phase of the course was physically and mentally demanding as we learned how to progress inductees from physical training in the comfort of runners, shorts and T-shirts to training in combats, boots, helmet, battle vest, and body armour. This prepares the soldier to physically and mentally withstand the rigours of combat regardless of terrain or weather. We also learned how to plan and conduct military fitness classes safely and effectively for new inductees and trained soldiers. Firstly, we covered military skills ( jumping, pulling, pushing, balancing, rope climbing, etc) and how to demon- strate these skills and teach soldiers how to perform them confidently and safely. From there we learned how to plan and conduct a combined skills circuit to improve the endurance, speed and strength. We also trained at conducting route marching, scout-paced marching, forced march- ing, log exercises and rifle exercises. This meant a lot of kilometers travelled around the Curragh plains as each student had to practise conducting such exercises. During the Obstacle Course Instructors Course we got assistance from a three-star course training in the DFTC, who provided us with students to practice with. On a couple of occasions the class and our instructors got to get away from the grind of lessons to go hill walking. On our first walk, which was up Lugnaquilla in the Wicklow Mountains on Valentine's Day, the weather was good as we started out, but when we reached the summit there was driving snow and wind (similar to what I'd imagine the South Pole to be like!), so we didn't hang about to long. Our second hill walk may not have been as cold, but it was far more challenging as we were in Kerry to climb Ireland's highest mountain, Carrauntoohil. The walk was led by one of the course students, Cpl Eddie Casey, who is a native of the area and no stranger to the mountain. We made it to the top via the Eagle's Nest and O'Shea's Gully, and after a few photos and a quick coffee we descended down through the Heavenly Gates and back to Cronin's yard. It was a technically challenging route for the average hillwalker but very enjoyable nonetheless. When the course ends each student will return to their home unit as a fully qualified PTI, armed with the knowl- edge and skills to organise and safely conduct physical training of various types at unit level, such as introduc- ing military fitness to new recruits or assisting trained soldiers in maintaining their physical fitness at individual or group level. Also, as PTIs we will be expected to remain committed to learning and self development by keeping up to date with current research in the area of physical training, and maintaining our own high level of physical fitness. But most importantly we will be required to act as positive role models and to promote healthy lifestyles within the Defence Forces. Vox Pops SGT ANTOINETTE BYRNE, 2 BDE HQ My interest in do- ing the PTI course comes from returning to work after injury and following mater- nity leave. Fitness goals differ in every individual and how to achieve these goals depends on the person, and how to do this is really well covered on the course. On comple- tion of the course I hope I will be able to assist others to achieving their individual goals. CPL GARY CANAVAN, 1 CN COIS The PTI cse is physically and mentally chal- lenging, but also very enjoyable and I would rec- ommend anyone who has an interest in training to apply for it. SGT SHANE WHELAN, 3 INF BN The PTI course has been very enjoy- able and interest- ing. I've always had an interest in physical training and was delighted to be selected for the course. Every lesson has been interesting and delivered with a high standard of instruction by the staff of the DFPES and outside instructors. I am looking forward to returning to my unit with the skills and knowledge to become an active PTI and assist with all as- pects of physical training in my unit.

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