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Step 1
Read everything you can about true experiences in boot camp from other marines and former marines, like "Rows of Corn" by Herb Moore, "Boot" by Daniel Da Cruz, and "Making the Corps" by Thomas E. Ricks.
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Step 2
Start a fitness routine immediately to prepare for Boot Camp. Run on concrete. Work yourself up to 3 miles and try to improve your time everyday. Do pull-ups, push-ups and sit-ups.
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Step 3
Make sure you are very comfortable in the water because in Boot Camp you'll be tested in a swim qualification.
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Step 4
Take advantage of your local recruiting office. They offer support to prepare recruits for Marine Corps Boot Camp and can connect you with other recruits for exercise and other training.
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Step 5
Memorize the 11 General Orders that are used in guard duty. You'll be required to know them in Boot Camp. 1) Take charge of this post and all government property in view. 2) Walk my post in a military manner, keeping always on the alert and observing everything that takes place within sight or hearing. 3) Report all violations of orders I am instructed to enforce. 4) To repeat all calls [from posts] more distant from the guardhouse than my own. 5) Quit my post only when properly relieved. 6) To receive, obey, and pass on to the sentry who relieves me, all orders from the Commanding Officer, Officer of the Day, Officers, and Non-Commissioned Officers of the guard only. 7) Talk to no one except in the line of duty. 8) Give the alarm in case of fire or disorder. 9) To call the Corporal of the Guard in any case not covered by instructions. 10) Salute all officers and all colors and standards not cased. 11) Be especially watchful at night and during the time for challenging, to challenge all persons on or near my post, and to allow no one to pass without proper authority.
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Step 6
Familiarize yourself with the ranks of the Marine Corps. See related eHows "How to Identify Enlisted Marine Ranks" and "How to Identify Marine Officer Ranks."
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Step 7
Study for and take the ASVAB (Armed Forces Vocational Aptitude Test). Find study books at your library or book store, or from your recruiter. Your recruiter will help you set up a testing date. This test determines the jobs you are eligible for in the Marine Corps.
