FORT KNOX, Ky. – Cadets from 10th Regiment, Advanced Camp, completed the Confidence Course at Fort Knox, Ky., July 28, 2023.
The Confidence Course consists of ten obstacles that are designed to physically and mentally challenge Cadets. Despite how intimidating the obstacles may look, the purpose of the Confidence Course is to build confidence in Cadets.
One of the obstacles from the confidence course was named the belly over. It’s where Cadets have to get their stomach on top of a log, then roll over to the opposite side. Cadet Alexis Rivera from Central Michigan University talked about her personal experience training on this obstacle.
“[The belly over] wasn’t as tough,” Rivera said. “Getting that good, proper jump to roll over it is pretty much what you need.”
The belly over obstacle is one of the hardest obstacles at the confidence course for shorter Cadets. Rivera mentioned her technique when going over the obstacle.
“Work on powering your legs,” Rivera said. “It’s all about a very good vertical jump and making sure you have explosive strength.”
Cadet Isaac Duduline from Fayetteville State University, also talked about his experience going over the belly over obstacle.
“I was able to do it,” Duduline said. “However, the most important thing that I did [as a leader] was make sure that all my teams succeeded and everybody felt accomplished.”
The belly over obstacle can be difficult for some Cadets to complete. Duduline gave advice for Cadets that might wrestle with the belly over.
“To be able to have trust in yourself, have confidence, and picture that you’re already doing it,” Duduline said. “Some people have more advantages, they have more upper body strength, but if you are really struggling you have to push yourself to your limit. Just know that your body can always go over and beyond what you think that you cannot do.”
Besides the belly over obstacle, Duduline mentioned how the confidence course event mentally challenges Cadets at Cadet Summer Training.
“It builds the esprit de corps [team work] amongst troops and gets everybody together,” Duduline said. “We are all suffering, but through pain and joy, it really boosts morale.”
Duduline gave encouragement for next year’s Cadets.
“Be open minded and have a growth mindset,” Duduline said. “Everybody learns to do things a little bit differently [at their university], but when you come up here, listen to your safety, and keep a positive mind.”
