Fitness: more than just a test

Published May 8, 2014
By Senior Airman Connor Estes
633rd Air Base Wing Public Affairs

LANGLEY AIR FORCE BASE, Va. -- The 633rd Force Support Squadron fitness center staff helps maintain fitness standards for U.S. Air Force Airmen and prepare them to meet expeditionary readiness requirements.

The staff's goal is to motivate Airmen to participate in a physical conditioning program that emphasizes total fitness, to include proper aerobic conditioning, strength and flexibility training as well as healthy eating.

"It is every Airman's responsibility to maintain fitness 365 days a year," said U.S. Air Force Tech. Sgt. Billy Hollowell, 633rd FSS Fitness Assessment Cell (FAC) manager.

In order to meet these standards, an Airman's fitness level has to be a priority and they must consciously lead a healthy lifestyle on a daily basis, said Hollowell.

"The fitness assessment is another tool that can help determine overall fitness levels of Airmen, but for it to be successful we must foster an environment to maintain physical fitness and health throughout the year," said Hollowell.

According to U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Vertalya Reddick, 633rd FSS FAC administrator, an active lifestyle can increase productivity, optimize health and decrease absenteeism while maintaining a higher level of readiness. She said physical fitness can also increase mental alertness, the ability to recover from injury and a reduction in life threatening health conditions.

Reddick and Hollowell agree that being active doesn't have to mean going to the gym. There are ways to be active and that don't cost much money. Walking, doing housework or gardening are all physical activities that can maintain fitness. The staff at the FAC also want Airmen to reach their fitness goals and know they're not in this alone. There's help available.

"We want everyone to be successful in fitness, but if you're struggling, don't be afraid to reach out and ask for help. We have programs like Back to Basics, Better Body Better Life, strength training, running and health and wellness programs to help Airmen learn to make fitness a daily lifestyle."

There are also numerous websites to find information about how to lead a healthy lifestyle. The tips below can be found at mayoclinic.org:

1. Eat Well:
- Studies have shown around 80% of any fitness goal depends on diet, be it weight loss, muscular development or training for an event

2. Keep Hydrated:
- Hydration is key to staying healthy; water will wash out salts, toxins and aid with the body's recovery from exercise

3. Regular Exercise:
- Work out three to four times per week

4. Routine and Variety:
- Set a goal, commit to that goal and incorporate different styles of exercises

5. New Skills:
-Learn something new; a new skill has physical benefits, mental benefits and keeps the body and brain guessing. Try new activities like yoga or the less traditional forms of exercise such as rock climbing, boxing, rowing or canoeing

6. Balance:
- Keep balance between cardiovascular and resistance exercise and schedule days to rest

7. Relaxing and Sleep:
- Relaxing can help with stress and tension in muscles and repair the body; it will also relax the mind, enabling mental focus

8. Enjoyment:
- Choose activities that will be enjoyable; make fitness fun

For more information about fitness programs, contact your local fitness facility.