Hi, I am in need of some help to lose weight and develop upper body strength so that I can join the Marines. I have not seen a recruiter yet because I know that I will be embarressed about being over the weight limit and not being in great shape. Any great work outs or exercises that dont require a gym membership would be great, I have basic weights at home. Thanks.

Go to a library or book store and find a US Marines exercise book. Also, grab the Men's Health Home Exercise bible. Both contain great exercises and advice. good luck!

I suggest getting ready for the PFT....the Marines' physical fitness test.

Let's see...3 mile run, then timed sit-ups and pull-ups. I think you have to do the run in under 26 minutes. And then you get 2 minutes for sit-ups to do as many as you can, and same with pull-ups.

You will be expected to do this every 6 months...so it's something to be prepared to do.

Also, maybe look into a sort of a "bootcamp" type of fitness training. Something that is hardcore and will put you through the paces. No matter what it is...make sure it pushes you to your limits. Not over your limits, but to your limits. It's exactly what will happen the moment you join, so you might as well get used to it now.

Thanks for the help, it is much appreciated. I am going to give it a try, hopefully they won't want too many pull ups from me!

I just wanted to wish you good luck! I thought about joining the military, but I'm not sure. I think it'd at least be a challenge to be able to meet the physical requirements for it.