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