how Alexander the Great stayed ready for battle

 

Alexander III of Macedon, more famously known as Alexander the Great, was an accomplished Greek king and military leader. He ascended the throne at 20 years of age, after the assassination of his father, Philip II. He was also tutored by Aristotle as a child. The training and education he received allowed him to conquer the Persian empire, found the Egyptian city of Alexandria, and explore the Indian subcontinent. 

Alexander is believed to have won some 15 major victories across his various military campaigns in the Balkans, Persia, and India. He did this all while being the head of the League of Corinth, a union of Greek states formed to protect Greece from the Persians. 

So, how did a young Alexander the Great remain ready for battle at all times?

For his military as a whole, Alexander used the method of the Macedonian phalanx, a military formation created by his father. To use this formation, Alexander had to ensure that his men were trained to fight in tight formations while using long spears. 

He also always made sure that his army was ready to live off of the land rather than using supply lines. This was so that they could cross great distances quickly and have the ability to launch surprise attacks against enemies.

As far as Alexander the Great's personal daily routine, the leader believed that leadership and physical stamina were one in the same. To maintain both, he hunted, horseback rode, practiced with his weapons, and did drills. Aside from these physical tasks, he preferred to have a flexible routine. This was so that he was always ready to complete his duties as leader if the need arose. 

What can we learn from the methods Alexander the Great used to ensure battle readiness?

Always remain ready for your end goal. Alexander's personal routine and the routines of his men were specifically crafted so that they were always ready for battle. The knew battles were coming, so they prepared for them well in advance.