Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego

After stretching, warm-up exercises and a half mile run, recruits of Echo Company worked through 14 different exercises to complete the Circuit Course at Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego, Dec. 11.    

Company E worked out for a total of an hour and a half to finish the Circuit Course, which is just one of many requirements to pass recruit training.

In order to get the blood pumping, recruits were pushed to run quickly for their warm-up. To spectators, the run could’ve resembled more of a sprint as runners kicked up clouds of dust as they ran.

Once warm, recruits were divided into groups of approximately 10 and quickly began their circuit training.

Some of the exercises included were inclined sit-ups, dips, jump rope, monkey bars and weight lifting.

Recruits were ordered to work as hard as they could at each exercise station. Although each station only lasted a few minutes, there was no rest in between stations, and recruits were in constant movement.   

“My lack of good cardio made this hard,” said Recruit Robert L. Herpel, Platoon 2102. “This training was demanding. I’ve never done anything like this.” 

Herpel explained the stressors of recruit training added to the difficulty of completing the exercise.

However difficult the exercise, Herpel said he felt the challenge made him stronger.

“The drill instructors challenged us hard, but I believe it made us stronger,” said Herpel, a Springfield, Ill., native. “Having to respond quickly and having to move fast will make us stronger for upcoming training.”

While it’s easy to see the immediate physical benefits the training provides, many recruits realized the benefits can be long lasting.

“My goal is to become physically stronger and more disciplined in every part of my life, and I definitely feel like that was accomplished today,” said Recruit Landon J. McGinnis, Platoon 2102.

Although the Circuit Course is only one training event among numerous completed over their 13-week training evolution, the recruits of Company E are now one step closer toward becoming strong, well-disciplined Marines.