If you’ve recently joined the Navy, you’re probably feeling excited, apprehensive, and maybe a little anxious about starting this new chapter in your life. One thing you will need to do is prepare for boot camp. Because it is physically and mentally demanding, having a good idea of what to expect when you get there can help you get through the experience.

These tips will help you prepare for Navy boot camp:

Get physically fit.
If you’re not already in good physical shape, now is the time to work on it. Basic workouts like being able to run a few miles and do push-ups, pull-ups, and sit-ups will be common in boot camp, so make sure you increase your stamina and strength so it won’t be a shock to your system when you get there.

Get mentally fit.
Most people know that boot camp requires mental endurance as well, as boot camp involves being yelled at, singled out, and embarrassed in front of large groups of other recruits. Talk to friends and relatives who have gone through boot camp, and get advice on how to handle the emotions you will be dealing with.

Get into good habits.
You will also want to start going to bed early and training your body to get up early as well. Boot camp involves early hours and a lot of work on small amounts of sleep. If you are already used to getting up early, it won’t be such a shock to your system.

Tie up loose ends.
Make sure you have handled things back home while you’re away. This includes everything from signing up your bills to be automatically paid to making sure your pets are taken care of to spending time with your family before you take off. This will help to alleviate stress and ensure you have nothing to worry about while you’re gone.

Going into Navy boot camp knowing what to expect will make it a better experience for you.