Case Studies

The PentUp Foundation modern pentathlon is a demanding multi-sport discipline. It has a cathartic and healing impact on former military personnel suffering from PTSD, significantly propelling them along the road to rehabilitation.

Simon, a clinical psychologist specialising in PTSD,  helped create the PentUp Foundation and develop the idea of using the modern pentathlon to teach ex-soldiers fencing, running, show jumping, swimming and shooting.

In a BBC news story he says: “The pentathlon is uniquely suited to people with PTSD. They have to concentrate but also control their emotions… You are not going to get on a horse and ride well if you are highly anxious.”

And participants are certainly enthusiastic. Sean, a former Coldstream Guardsman, was medically discharged from the army with PTSD.

Speaking plainly he says: “My life was locked in, a shell. I was scared, angry, frustrated. If it wasn’t for the modern pentathlon, right now I would probably be at home drinking, locking myself away.”