At the start of the war there was no organized, systematic basic training plan. Each regiment had their own training scheme - mostly based on outdated WW1 Trench warfare experience. Even in 1940 the First Canadian Division trained in simulated trench systems in England. The 2nd Canadian Division's training was hampered by shortages in uniforms, weapons, equipment and transportation. As well, until the end of 1941 the Canadians training in England were often called on for coastal defence duties - at least until the British Army recovered from the Dunkirk disaster.

By 1942 training became much more organized. There were over 90 Training Centres. Recruits received six weeks of Basic Training plus another six weeks of Infantry specific training. There was also further extensive training in Britain. Severely bomb damaged areas of cities were often used for training in street fighting etc.

Infantry training consisted of lots of marching drill, fitness exercises, weapons training, route marching, plus basic platoon tactics. By 1943 nearly all Infantry recruits went through some sort of "battle inoculation" course. Infantry Battle Schools tried to integrate "lessons learned" into the training, and there was a lot of live firing and simulated artillery fire.

Living conditions in training camps were difficult. The soldiers slept in poorly heated barracks or huts. In the field recruits slept under blankets and ponchos/gas capes. The food was monotonous and limited in quantity but the supply units tried to provide more for the Infantry units in training. Canned corned beef, "Spam", oatmeal porridge, beans, stew, hard biscuits, tea and coffee, condensed milk, and chocolate bars were generally available, along with donations of cigarettes. Cleaning and personal hygiene facilities were minimal by modern standards. A lot of "free time" was spent just trying to maintain a basic level of cleanliness.