Gallery | Bigbury Training

The Argyle first team and under-18 squads spent Thursday morning on Bigbury-on-Sea, under the watchful eye of the Royal Navy’s physical training instructors. 

This was no typical day at the beach. There was not a football – or beach ball – in sight as the lads were put through their paces in a series of physical and mental drills, aimed at developing relationships and emotional intelligence. 

For one morning, tactical sessions or working on finishing was replaced by carrying stretchers, rolling in sand and carrying their team-mates – literally. 

Striker Ryan Hardie says that it was very tough, but ultimately rewarding. 

“It was the hardest thing I have ever done in my life,” he said. “I thought we going there to see the way they work, but unfortunately we had to join in! 

“We were lying in the water doing core, we did lifeguard stuff with bodies, and had to carry people dead weight in the water. It certainly wasn’t an easy experience. 

“It was one that we enjoyed, though. In the end, after complaining, the boys got through it and we did enjoy it. It was about bringing the team together.

“To be fair, it does show the qualities we have. Everybody got through it – without too much moaning!”