Page 165 - Mind, Body and Spirit No. 105 2021/22

ARMY SCHOOL OF PHYSICAL TRAINING
Sgt (SI) L Hilson RAPTC
It was both an honour and a privilege being asked to conduct a Physical Training Instructor (PTI) Course with the Bahrain Royal Guard (BRG) as part of a Short-Term Training Team (STTT). This
is my second time taking part in this deployment, so I already knew first-hand what a fantastic opportunity and valuable experience it would be.
Working in a small team of only four Royal Army Physical Training Corps Instructors (RAPTCIs), WO1 Connelly, SSgt Gilmore, Sgt Sadler and myself, we aimed to qualify BRG Soldiers as Basic PTIs enabling them, if successful, to plan and safely deliver Physical Training (PT) to maximise their Operational Capability. On top of that, I was also tasked to provide PT to the BRG Female Close Protection Course to try and enhance their general health and fitness levels.
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ARMY SCHOOL OF PHYSICAL TRAINING – DELIVERY TEAM
Capt (MAA) R Pierce RAPTC – Chief Instructor
Iwrite this article in my last few months as Chief Instructor Army School of Physical Training, and reflect on what I can only describe as an incredible 24 months. I could
not have survived without the current team who have surrounded me, that have remained totally professional, resilient, highly motivated and focused on delivering nothing short of excellence across an array of courses held at the ASPT and globally. The team at the ASPT remain the measuring eye that guide the hands and feet.
My last submission was focused on the challenges we faced delivering Subsequent Trade Training to the Field Army during a pandemic while negotiating our way through Force Health Protection Measures. We (HQ RAPTC & ASPT) have found ourselves in high demand across the globe as other Armed Forces have recognised how the Physical Training Instructor is vital in maximising Force Generation, reducing MSKI and optimising physical performance.
Since Jan 22 we have sent Short Term Training Teams (STTT) to Bahrain, Sierra Leone and Jordan. We have also consulted closely with Crown Agents to develop the PD curriculum for the Iraqi Officer academy – and it’s not even April yet!
Life in Fox Lines is challenging, fast-paced and incredibly rewarding. I have witnessed a large number of students attend the AAPTI course and 12-18 months later attend RAPTC Selection and successfully transfer into the RAPTC. I can say with the upmost confidence that the PTI Career pathway works with the standard remaining as high as ever and the talent coming through is absolutely next level.
I move on knowing the ASPT is in good hands with the current cohort of RAPTC Officers and those who are yet to arrive. I now look forward to a different battle rhythm in HQ BF Cyprus as the SO2 PD.
Bahrain Basic PTI Course
Bahrain Basic PTI Course conduct Battle PT
Bahrain Short-Term Training Team RAPTCIs