Aerobic Ability:
We offer reasonable guidelines for persons who wish to participate in this training. The physical initiatives and tactical training we provide are not designed to be a "boot camp." This program is also not designed to get a person into shape. Participants should come to our program in good physical condition so they can benefit most from the training. The tactical environment is physically demanding and mentally stressful. You must be physically and mentally fit to be an effective tactical EMS operator. We offer the following guidelines so that you may evaluate yourself:

	We take nutrition and hydration seriously. Your course fee includes lodging and meals, and every day your 3 squares are prepared by a professional caterer. We discovered in 1993 that keeping the team together during mealtimes is not only a morale builder but one of many positive attributes of our training style and curriculum.
A team from our 2005 program catches their breath in the pre-dawn light of Minnesota. We get up at 0600 for stretching, team initiatives, and to take advantage of a time when “lesser operators” are still sleeping!

Physical Conditioning:
You need not be a powerlifter or a marathoner to participate, but we do ask that you exercise the highest degree of maturity and professionalism in this matter and come to class prepared. Those who are currently participating in some type of aerobic exercise for 30-60 minutes at least 3 times weekly are likely to be well-prepared for this class.

Medication and Dietary Needs:
As part of your application we will ask for you to list medications, allergies, and special dietary needs. These are confidential yet important pieces of information that we use in operational preplanning just as you should with your own team. All of our meals during the school are professionally catered since we believe that good food plays a part in maintaining positive morale. Meals must be a part of a thoughtful tactical preplan and not an accidental afterthought. If you have special dietary needs we welcome your input and suggestions so that we can provide for you.