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Naval study reveals attributes that make it more likely to pass SEAL selection

Coronado, Calif., (Apr. 13, 2018): U.S. Navy SEAL candidates participate in Basic Underwater Demolition/SEAL (BUD/S) training. SEALs are the maritime component of U.S. Special Forces and are trained to conduct a variety of operations from the sea, air and land. (U.S. Navy photo by Petty Officer 1st Class Abe McNatt).

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Since the beginning of the Global War on Terrorism (GWOT) in 2001, the premium placed on Special Operations Forces (SOF) by political and military leaders has increased exponentially. With each passing year, the demand for SOF units surpasses supply, even as both the U.S. Special Operations Command and the Joint Special Operations Command expand rapidly in size and budget.

For example, the 75th Ranger Regiment added an additional line company to each of its three battalions—there are now four companies to each battalion. Both Delta Force and SEAL Team 6 added an extra assault squadron.

The Naval Health Research Center (NHRC) conducted a study titled “Predictors of Success in Basic Underwater Demolition/SEAL (BUD/S) Training: What Do We Know and Where Do We Go From Here?” Divided into two parts, the research had a dual purpose:

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  • Avatar
    Ron M

    Neuropeptide Y, and cortisol were mentioned in a NSW paper.

  • Avatar
    Ken A

    Hmm, neuroendocrine markers? That’s interesting.

  • Swigs

    Correction: I did not click on hyperlinks in article. Sorry.
    I like most articles on the site, but the headline and the content do not match. It never states any of the attributes the study found. What attributes of a person would be more likely to pass selection? What were the testing methods used to find those attributes? Am I missing something or not seeing the entire article?

  • Avatar
    Daniel

    I would have guessed wrestlers, from cold climates have the highest percentage rate of passing BUD/S. Mentally tough, extremely physically fit, and higher tolerances to cold.
    I remember high school wrestling practice, doing hundreds of pushups, sit-ups, and other calisthenics, each practice, twice a day, and a 5 mile run, everyday after school.Plus mandatory weight lifting class, as an elective during school hours. And Collegiate wrestling, is much tougher than that. Has to count for something. But, I was never a SEAL, so who knows.