What do soldiers do in their free time?

You might think that when you join the Army it means putting the rest of your life on hold and giving up the things you enjoy. But that's not what Army life is really like.

So, do soldiers get free time? Yes. When they're not working, training or on duty, many soldiers enjoy playing sports, going to the gym, gaming with friends, learning new skills or simply relaxing. Some carry on doing the things they love or even discover new interests along the way. It’s busy, but it is not all work.

So, if you’re worried about giving up your hobbies, don’t be. Joining the Army could give you more chances to do the things you enjoy or even find an unexpected new hobby.

Do I have to give up my hobbies?

The simple answer is no.

Life in the Army doesn't mean you become a different person. If you enjoy football, gaming, music, fitness, hiking or spending time with friends, those things don't have to stop.

The Army can become part of your life. It doesn't have to replace it.

"You're not leaving anything behind by joining. If anything, you're gaining."

Can I still play sport?

If sport is important to you, there's plenty to get involved in.

Many soldiers play football, rugby, hockey, golf, run regularly or spend time in the gym. Some play for fun, while others compete and represent their unit, Army or at a national level.

One soldier who carried on playing hockey said:

"I thought I was going to have to leave all hockey behind. I've gone on to represent the Army Under 25s."

Whether you want to compete or simply stay active, there are opportunities to keep playing the sports you enjoy in the Army.

What if I want to try something new?

The Army can help you discover new interests.

You could take part in hiking trips, adventure training, charity challenges or outdoor activities that push you out of your comfort zone. Many soldiers join with one hobby and gather more along the way.

If you enjoy trying new things, Army life can introduce you to new skills, new challenges and experiences you may never have considered before.

It’s not all about being active

There isn't one type of person in the Army. Not everyone wants to spend their free time on a sports field. Some soldiers enjoy gaming, playing music, photography or getting involved in community projects. Others simply like spending time with friends.

Whatever your interests, you'll meet people from different backgrounds who enjoy a wide range of activities.

What about friends and social life?

Many soldiers say the people they meet are one of the best things about Army life.

When you are not working, training or on duty, you’ll usually have evenings and weekends free to see friends and enjoy the things you like doing. So, no matter where you are you'll have opportunities to build friendships with people who share similar experiences.

For many, those friendships last long after training has finished.

There is more to Army life than just work

Joining the Army does not mean giving up the things that matter to you.

You can still enjoy hobbies, sport, friends and time to relax. You may also find new interests, new challenges and new people along the way.

So, if you are wondering whether you can still have a life outside work, the answer is yes. Army life could give you more to be part of, not less.