The Fan Dance

[Inchy]

I know there are a few ex military on here and was wondering if anyone has done the Fan Dance, and if so do you have any advise about completing it?

In a couple of weeks I will be attempting it in order to raise money for St George’s Crypt in Leeds.

For those that don’t know the Fan Dance is part of the SAS selection. It’s a 15mile loaded march carrying 45ib up Pen Y Fan in the Brecon Beacons, down the other side, then back up again. The SAS time limit is 4 hours and that’s what I am aiming for.

[Rick_Muller]

I didn’t do it, but on a school trip to the Beacons a few of us (aged 13-14) did the challenge with the chap running the show (ex SAS) without the pack and we did the course in 5 hours or so - unbelievably tough and we were fit lads. Good luck Inchy

[Inchy]

Yes it’s a lot tougher than these fashionable endurance events like tough mudder.

I’m going to have to run a least half off it which won’t be easy with that weight on my back

[Caballo]

Make sure your pack is comfortable and fits properly, ensure you've sufficient foodstuffs and fluids. Don't obsess about the 4 hours, it's not really a barometer unless of course you'll be carrying a rifle too.

[JohnMac]

Practice breathing out of your arse and you will be fine

Good Bergen required, load it properly, pad the straps and put zinc oxide tape on your feet.

It isn't for the faint hearted but the aim should be for you to complete it first and foremost and let the time take care of itself.

Good luck!

[Healeywoodclaret]

Fluids at this time if year very important but water weighs. Hopefully some ex military guys on here can give you some valuable advice. Good luck and well done for even giving it a go.

[bfcjg]

That's nothing. I have done an egg and spoon race in a blistering 80 degrees at Thompsons Park.

[bobinho]

Fluids and electrolytes will be key. Also, for anything 3 hours + you need to be thinking about energy giving foods. Not a lot, but you will need something.

As johnmac says get your feet taped. Good socks and really decent footwear can make or break a long tab, so don’t scrimp.

Try not to get too giddy at the start. It’s a looooong four hours + so ignore the initial adrenaline boosted start, settle into your pace and rhythm quickly.

As for the Bergen, pack it tight. Loose items sloshing around will cause you hassle all the way. Pack it tight, wear it tight and use the midriff strap to reduce the movement.

Be under no illusions (I’m sure you’re not) this will be a grueller. An absolute beast of a tab. Hats off, I couldn’t do it. Even at my fittest when I left basic training.

Feet, Bergen, fluids are massively important. I won’t insult you by telling you to get your head straight... if you are attempting the fan dance, it’s NEVER going to be straight anyway.

Seriously, good luck.