Water
Water is an important substance that we need to include in our diets to stay healthy . It helps regulate body temperature , cushion the joints , control blood pressure and keep the body in balance . Maintaining sufficient levels of fluid is essential when carrying out any form of physical activity If fluid lost to perspiration is not replaced , dehydration can rapidly occur , leading to fatigue , mental confusion and stress on the cardiovascular system . Remember , water is the best and most economical form of fluid replacement . Avoid caffeinated and alcoholic drinks which have a dehydrating effect .
Smoking
Smoking is responsible for thousands of deaths every year . It causes approximately 30 % of all cancer deaths and is a major contributor to heart disease and breathing problems . It also reduces your ability to exercise by damaging your lungs , making it harder for you to absorb oxygen . Critically , it also contributes to increasing your chances of sustaining an injury in training and suffering from longer healing times . If you smoke - cut down or stop .
Alcohol
Try to ensure your alcohol intake is within recommended weekly limits and try to spread this over 3 days or more . Aim to have a number of alcohol free days every week , limiting your intake especially before and after training . Remember , exercise makes you dehydrated and alcohol increases this effect . Make sure you drink plenty of water instead .
CONTACT INFORMATION
If you have any further questions or want to know more about the Fitness requirements to join the RAF , please contact your local Armed Forces Careers Office .
For more information about life in the Royal Air Force , or to find out about the range of careers on offer , visit raf . mod . uk / recruitment