SHAW AIR FORCE BASE, S.C. -- The Air Force is rolling out a Tier 2 Physical Fitness test for explosive ordnance disposal flights, building a more lethal, ready force, as Airmen train for a job specific test.
The test is scheduled to come out June 2020, and consists of ten exercises. One of the exercises is called the Gruseter, which consists of pushups, planks and a rollover with a sandbag. There is also a mile and a half run, a row ergometer, grip strength portion, medicine ball toss, trap bar deadlift, pull-ups, extended cross knee crunch metronome, a farmers carry sandbag and a grip endurance test. All of these have rest periods between to ensure safety.
“I like the test,” said Staff Sgt. Jordan Massey, 20th Civil Engineer Squadron EOD technician. “It is job specific so it is a little more beneficial than the Tier 1 test. Training and building up for the test is what really matters and keeps us prepared on the day to day.”
By exceeding the new standards embodies Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. David L. Goldfein’s emphasis on the importance of physical strength, resiliency, stamina and mental focus.
The 10 exercises are meant to test physical strength, muscular endurance and cardiovascular strength. Airmen assigned to EOD flights have to load and unload robots and carry heavy equipment; the grip and strength correlate to these functions.
“The preparation and the culture of fitness is what the test is more geared at,” said Col. Richard Brown, 20th Mission Support Group commander. “It is imperative before we send them into a hot climate with a bomb suit on that they are physically prepared for that strain on their minds and bodies.”