Introduction
Logs, ash poles and medicine balls are valuable aids in developing physical fitness, co-ordination and dexterity, and can be a great alternative to ‘normal’ training sessions. Some of the benefits of these forms of training include:
- The equipment can be used as a weight to assist in progressive strengthening exercises;
- Exercises can be developed to improve dexterity and judgement of distance;
- Sessions can be fun, enjoyable and interesting; and
- They add variety to training programmes.
Points to Consider
When conducting these types of exercise sessions the following points should be considered:
- Partners or groups should be approximately the same size and weight.
- The distance between partners or groups should be adjusted to suit the exercise.
- Exercises should be developed to ensure maximum activity.
- Throwing exercises must be strictly controlled.
- The class should be suitably dressed.
- Mats should be used where required.
- Equipment should be inspected before use.
- Instructors should be aware of any trip hazards.
- Class control and safety should be maintained at all times.
Log Exercises
Ash Pole Exercises
Medicine Ball Exercises
Hi There
Wondering what the approximated specs on a log used or PT
Hi Grant,
1. Simply put, specifications will depend on what you wish to use the log for.
2. Within the British Army there is no stipulated specifications for a log used during PT. The specs vary between units/organisations. For example, P Company logs are carried by six candidates (3 either side) using carrying handles. In contrast, for ‘normal’ unit PT, logs typically have no carrying handles and can be long or short in length to accommodate 4-8 personnel (in line). At the Army School of Physical Training, logs are smoothed (i.e. sanded down) and painted in the RAPTC colours and have carrying handles.
3. General Principles:
A. Diameter & Weight: In general, you want a log with a diameter of 14-20 inches. Less than 14 inches and the log becomes to light even for 4 people, over 20 inches and you will struggle to get your arms around the girth and it becomes too heavy.
B. Length: Short enough that team members can lift the log comfortably without stepping on each others toes; usually one metre, with a maximum of two metres between them. A (suggested) maximum log length of six metres for a team of eight people.
C. Team Numbers: Minimum four team members and a maximum of eight team members.
D. Purpose of Log PT:
i. If using log PT for running/sprints, then teams of eight to twelve, with four team members on the log at any one time. The remaining four to eight team members take turns carrying the log.
ii. If using log PT for static exercises (e.g. log throws, sit-ups etc), then all team members should be on the log at the same time.
Hi need some advice please
How much are the military Ash poles?
I need to bill someone who has lost 4 poles of mine which I’m not particularly pleased. Thank you for your guidance I think that I would say about £50 each
Thanks
Hi Ian,
1. Go to the retailer you bought your ash poles from and take a note of the price; or
2. Get your friend to go to the retailer and buy the replacement ash poles for you.