Tips, Lifestyle and Slang

7 Tips for Maintaining a Healthy Lifestyle in the IDF

Starting from your enlistment day, your entire routine will completely change. Nutrition and sleeping habits will not always be under your control, and at times, the schedule can be tight and unpredictable. So, how is it possible to maintain a healthy lifestyle within the military framework? Here are 7 helpful tips for your health:

Say no to the snacks!  

It doesn't matter if you are serving in an open or closed base, there is one thing for certain: between guarding duties and missions, you will crave something to snack. Instead of having high-carb and salted snacks, it's best to train your body to consume vegetables, fruits and other healthy nutritional fiber food

Get into shape

You are probably not new to the fact that there is a strong correlation between sport and a healthy lifestyle. Generally, in the various IDF units, and mainly in basic training and the various training, there is an emphasis on weekly sport hours - "Madas" carried out by the professional physical training instructors called "Madag". The Madag is a unifying social physical activity, and helps break the routine, which is integrated into a sports class. For those of you who are persistent, some of the bases include gyms.

Don't forget to drink!

The human body is made up of 70% water, therefore excessive drinking is essential for maintaining a healthy and correct lifestyle. Water is essential for the function of the various body systems, rapid metabolism, and keeping the facial skin refreshed and hydrated, etc. It is important to drink 11-15 cups of water each day, especially during hot days and during your training.

Maintain a routine active

You may not be particularly sportive, and that's okay. You don't have to get up early in the morning and go for a run every day. However, you can slowly integrate various small activities into your daily routine: Get off one station earlier on your way to the base and enjoy a good power-walk with a friend or while listening to music, use the stairs instead of the elevator, and if you are chronically late - at least you run a lot.

Healthy meals

In the IDF you receive 3 meals a day, and in recent years there has been a clear trend towards consuming healthy food - less processed meat, oil and margarine and more vegetables and fruits. Try to make a menu as diverse as possible and don't skip meals. Make sure to have a good breakfast that will give you the energy you need for the day.

Keep calm

Excessive pressure can often cause physical systems to collapse. During breaks or the pre-sleeping hour ("sh'at-tash") make sure to save some time to do your own things such as reading, watching videos on YouTube, listening to your favorite music or a face-time your family and friends. Do not give up on things that make you feel good, and do not succumb to unnecessary anger and pressure.

A good night's sleep

According to orders from the Chief of Staff, every soldier is entitled to receive at least 6 hours of sleep each night – and for good reason. Sleep is essential for your daily functioning; it affects your mood, concentration and even your alertness. So be sure to utilize your sleeping hours at night to their fullest. Also remember: Do not drive during the weekend before a proper good night's sleep!

Now that you know what to do – the rest is up to you. And don’t forget to have fun.