PREP QUESTION?

[OPPHOPEFUL]

Hey There Folks,
I am new to the forum and was wondering how long one should prepare before taking the PREP test? I'm far from a couch potatoe but don't exercise regularly. How long should I train before taking the test?
Cheers

[Lynch]

I was a weight lifter before I started training for the PREP, so my cardio was very week. I gave myself three months of running. I ran twice a day, combined with stairs, endurance style lifting and jujitsu. I found the Prep to be not too bad.

[dlwebber]

Everyone is different. I trained for 5 months (I was 249) and could barely run 1/2 km. After 5 months I was up to 6 to 7 kms a run and dropped 56 lbs. I did the practice PREP first to see where I was at and I passed with little problems. I just took the actual PREP this past Sat and passed.

I started out doing distance running. When I was up to 4 to 5 kms per run, I started to do interval training which is what you need to be good at to pass the shuttle run. The obsticle course is not that difficult.

Once I was able to run 2 kms in 12 mins I felt I was ready.

[OPPHOPEFUL]

I appreciate the feed back guys. I was just wondering because the PREP guide says that 6 weeks should be sufficent to train but that doesn't seem like enough time. I have been working out, running etc for over a year but I haven't been doing it religiously. There are times when I'll go a few weeks without doing anything and then I can go for a month or two non-stop 5-7 times a week. I guess I should just get back into it and maybe go for a practice run.

[Gardiner]

Based on your previous post I am assuming you are not extremely over weight or anything like that, you can be ready in 6 weeks. Do the correct exercises. Lots of interval training plus practice the shuttle run 3 times a week and your good to go.

[wortman]

I guess I should just get back into it and maybe go for a practice run.

You seem to be answering your own questions - if what your saying is true, you should do well if you train for 6 weeks. However, if your description of the way you train is way off........well enough said.

ADVICE/SUGGESTION: see a personal trainer and give them PREP outline. You'll have to pay $$$, but at least they'll have a chance to size you up. At that time you'll be told/receive answers.

Good luck. Confidence comes from within.

[manjoyten85]

You can download the shuttle run onto your ipod. Run that a couple of times, and it will not only be the most obvious and best way to prepare for the shuttle run, but it will also help with the circuit. Forget all the tips of running 1.5 miles in 11 minutes or whatever. That's no measure of the actual shuttle run itself. Just actually run the shuttle run. It is so accessible and easy to practice. Honestly, though, if I can pass the PREP, any person can. I have also attended many PREP workshops at local colleges, so I have run the PREP many times. That is well worth your time and money. I highly recommend doing that. Just know what you need to work on...for me it was endurance. I had the strength part down, so the push/pull and all that was no big deal, but I ate up all my time in the four laps of the circuit. Everyone has their weakness at some component of the circuit, but it all balances out.