Quick question, I just started training for the Army's basic training however, I am TERRIBLE at running! My endurance is pathetic but I was wondering if any experienced runners on here could give me a ballpark figure in regards to how long it will take, realistically, for me to meet the Army's Physical Fitness Test requirements for the 2 mile run.

I tested yesterday and did the 2 miles in 25:10 (about a 12:30 mile) however I was all over the treadmill, going up and down in speed.

Today, with a moderate to high level of effort, I was able to stick with 4.5 mph for the entire 2 mile run however, that raised my time to about 26:40.

I have been terribly discouraged by my results and fear it will take an extremely long time to minimally qualify under the APFT's standards, which at my age is 17:54. My goal is 2 miles in 17 minutes.

Anyone have any idea how long it might take for me to accomplish this lofty goal? Granted it will all depend on many factors, such as diet and exercise but maybe someone could venture a guess assuming a decent diet along with a strenuous workout? Maybe even suggest one however I am planning on following Stew Smith's boot camp work out guide, from stewsmith.com, which has a section on preparing for the 2 mile test. Thanks!

drop the treadmill and run on the road,the time you do on a treadmill wont be anywhere near your road time"which is harder" do some fartlek training (basicly intervals) some longer distances (maybe 3 or 4 miles) once a wk,try and run at least 5 times a wk,and i would say within a month you should notice a change in times.
mon,fartlek ie fast slow fast slow,as far as you can aim for 2 miles.
tue,steady 2 miles.
wed off.
thur,faster paced 2 miles
fri,steady 2 miles
sat,long run try for 3 or 4 miles slow.

Buzz, thanks a lot. I am hearing a lot of people suggest the interval training and the long runs so, thanks again.

not a problem.
yes the interval work helps by letting you run at a faster pace in short bursts,so that your body gets used to running at that pace,and when you have had enough slow down.

Congrats on your decision to join the Army I'm in the service myself. I know how you feel, because a year ago I ran a little over a 13/mile. Today, I run 8:30/mile and sometimes less. The advice that has been given to you is accurate. I ran outside, and first started off running until I could comfortably run for 30 mins. Then I went to the track (I'm not sure what size it was) and I would sprint the straight, then jog the bend. This really helped me a lot. Just be patient and stick to it. You will reach your goal!

Are you in the Delayed Entry Program? If so, get some guys who are also in DEP and do some indian runs. Running with a group was a big help. I was the only girl in my last squadron so I had to keep up with some pretty quick guys!

If you have an iPod, the nike plus adapter is also a big motivator. Its like a video game for me! Then again, its all on the person. Whatever you chose to go with, just stick with it! Good Luck!

This could be helpfull.

Running and Cardio - Military.com Military Fitness Center

Wes, thanks for the link, I'll look through it.

JME, thanks for the advice. I had no idea about the DEP, I'll have to look into that. Congrats on your success, hopefully I can follow suite.