Don't Rely On The Couch To 5K To Improve Your Bleep Test Scores

Ok this is a common mistake that I see frontline workers who need to pass their bleep test fall into a lot.

Firstly, let me start by saying that the couch to 5k is a great initiative to get people into fitness.

Secondly, let me follow that by saying for SOME people they will use the couch to 5k for training and yes, they will pass their test.

BUT I will tell you now, don't rely on this and don't put your eggs in this basket for the following reasons...

It's not specific or relevant enough - It trains one component required for the bleep test - Stamina. That is where it ends and this is why I have stressed and demotivated frontline workers speaking with me wondering why they can't pass their JRFT.

It doesn't condition you for the other three components you will need to improve to improve your test scores -

ACCELERATION

AGILITY

PACING

The first one in particular is crucial, after all what is the test asking of your body? To accelerate when fatigued.

With that in mind, if you do not condition your body to work in these training zones then test scores are unlikely to improve.

The same applies to fitness classes and lifting weights - great for general fitness but will they improve your bleep test scores? Highly unlikely.

Put the car in the right gear this summer on the run up to your fitness test.

Train smart, effectively and with purpose.

Stay safe.

Jamie