Sport and adventure is central to life in both the Regular and Territorial Army. It builds confidence, fitness and team skills and is, above all, fun.

There are many opportunities to play sport in the TA. Adventurous training takes place in the UK and abroad and includes activities such as:

• Canoeing
• Climbing
• Sailing
• Skiing
• Trekking

The Ulysses Trust was formed in 1992 and provides funds for units and individuals to take part in challenging expeditions mounted by volunteers of the Reserve Forces and Cadets of the United Kingdom.

 

Basic Training
All TA soldiers complete basic training. For Regional Units it is spread over several training weekends, in your unit or at one of a number of TA Regional Training Centres.  It culminates in a residential two-week course at an Army training establishment, where you will be trained and mentored by expert Regular Army staff. Your training will usually take about a year to complete. For National TA Units, basic training is delivered either as above or in two centralised two-week courses, delivered over one or two years to suit the individual.
Basic training is challenging and enjoyable.  It will teach you everything you need to know to become an effective soldier and to fulfil your role within the TA, from military terminology, drill and how to wear your uniform to physical fitness, weapon handling, first aid, field craft, and map reading. The final two-week course ends with a series of confirmatory tests and a Passing Out Parade, to which family and friends can be invited.

Trade Training
Once you have completed your basic training, you will move on to do whatever trade training is necessary for your role in the TA. What you do depends on the requirements of your unit and your own skills and preferences. You may adapt your civilian skills for military use, or you may learn new skills.

Location
Many people join a TA unit close to where they live. However, there are opportunities to use your existing skills, or train in new skills, with a National Unit. These roles include, for example, chefs, port and maritime operators, LGV drivers and vehicle mechanics, and training for such roles may take place some way from your home.