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Recruits overcome any fear of heights by climbing obstacles on the confidence course aboard Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego April 9. The obstacles help recruits see what they are able to accomplish by using teamwork and having confidence in themselves and fellow recruits.

Photo by Cpl. Eric Quintanillla

Company I recruits show determination on Confidence Course

9 Apr 2012 | Cpl. Eric Quintanilla Marine Corps Training and Education Command

Recruits of Company I, 3rd Recruit Training Battalion, spent their morning “war crying” through the confidence course aboard Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego April 9.

The confidence course is a series of obstacles that recruits use teamwork and determination to complete.

“I think it is used to instill confidence, teamwork and dedication,” said Recruit Michael Rivera, Platoon 3214, Co. I, 3rd RTBn. “Some of these obstacles proved to be very difficult.”

Throughout the course, recruits yell at the top of their lungs, or “war cry,” in order to help strengthen their lungs and used as a motivation booster. Many of the obstacles required the recruits to climb to various heights in order to complete them.

“I think for a lot of them, it helps them get over their fear of heights,” said Hutson. “A lot of recruits haven’t done anything like this before. It can be frightening.”

With open platforms, the recruits are able to get a clear view of their surroundings and the ground below.

“After going through this many of them feel a sense of accomplishment for conquering their fear of heights,” said Hutson.

The course made sure to test the strength and endurance of each recruits' upper and lower bodies.

“Every recruit struggles in different areas,” said Rivera, 19, a Gallup, N.M. native. “It teaches perseverance because you get really tired and have to push through it – it’s difficult.”

Recruits run in place while waiting their turn to charge each obstacle and after completion, they perform Marine Corps Martial Arts techniques until their entire squad finishes. This helps to keep their heart rate up and keep the recruits in the combat mindset. It shows them how much their body can still accomplish when they feel exhausted.

“They have the strength and stamina to complete it,” said Hutson. “Around week three they start to become accustomed to the physical training.”

Recruits prepared for the confidence course with daily physical training and ability group runs, that separate recruits based on their speed. Even with preparation, many recruits still struggled with completing some of the obstacles.

“I’m short, so I have to stretch a lot more and use more energy, but I don’t give up,” said Rivera. “If you have heart and perseverance, you can get through these obstacles no matter how big or small you are.”

Starting next week Co. I will visit the pool to earn their swim qualifications before moving up to Edson Range, Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton for second phase of recruit training.


Marine Corps Training and Education Command