YouTube video purports to show the ‘workout program’ behind jihadist group ISIS’s success in Iraq

THE model of a modern desert jihadist is very different to the hardy camel-borne tribesman of the past. Just watch their “workout program” to see why.

THE model of a modern desert jihadist is very different to the hardy camel-borne tribesman of the past. Just watch their “workout program” to see why.

It’s very different to the “training videos” released by authenticated Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS) sources in recent weeks. There they contain brutal live footage of gunmen running down unarmed — and very real — victims.

Push-ups ... Black masks and assault rifles gives these exercises an added edge.

Those videos have been removed from YouTube, but are still circulating the web.

This one — entitled “Islamic State Workout Video” — instead initially channels SAS-style reality-TV endurance programs and game shows in a more sanitized depiction of ultra-fit and flexible jihadist warriors jumping through hoops of fire to a jaunty tune.

Push-ups ... Even the most dedicated tribal warrior has to start somewhere.

The result is 45 minutes of almost humorous footage, with used tyres playing a feature role. But scenes of masked men rehearsing abductions and engaging in live-fire exercises brings home the brutal reality behind the propaganda.

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The authenticity of the video is not verified. The YouTube account has only two posts and very few links — though the video certainly has the appropriately coloured and themed banners strewn throughout.

Hoops of fire ... Part of the training course attributed to ISIS.

And while it is propaganda, it does give an indication as to why ISIS forces appear to have been so capable in their steamroller-attack on Iraq in the past fortnight.

ISIS fighters have more than a decade of combat experience. They have evolved and adapted their combat techniques to avoid and counter the West’s high technology, Cold War tactics.

Tyred out ... Used types provide a physical workout, usually involving mud or fire.