Staying fit to fight

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Andrew Moua
  • 2BW/PA
BARKSDALE AIR FORCE BASE, La. --  Physical fitness is a big part of the Air Force. It's implemented the moment Airmen begin basic training. Once operational, physical training can make or break a successful career. Every Airman is expected to meet the minimum PT standards, and not meeting those standards can result in being denied promotion, special duties, re-enlistment and assignment opportunities.

"The Air Force is more fit today than it was a decade ago," said Robert Sedberry, 2nd Force Support Squadron Fitness Assessment Cell lead. "Airmen back then weren't as physically fit and didn't have much incentive to keep themselves in shape. The Air Force today is much stricter on height and weight standards and overall fitness."

From 1993 to 2003, the Air Force administered the Submaximal Cycle Ergometry Test to evaluate aerobic fitness. The test consisted of riding a stationary bike while connected to an ergometer which monitored your intake of oxygen and also measured how well your body used it.

"Airmen were expected to keep themselves in shape," said Sedberry. "That's partly the reason the Air Force made the switch to the cycle test, and in doing so, Airmen fell behind on their physical fitness. There were a larger number of overweight Airmen and our overall readiness was lower."

In 2003, Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. John Jumper announced that by Jan. 1, 2004 the Air Force would toughen up its fitness standards. The Cycle Ergometry test was eliminated and a point system implemented. The point system consists of evaluating four categories: running, sit-ups, pushups and waist circumference, which combined, add up to 100 points. The minimum passing score for this test is 75 points.

"With this test Airmen can set goals for themselves to work toward," said Sedberry. "It allows them to go above and beyond. They are more concerned with being fit and staying in shape by eating healthy foods and living an active lifestyle."

Airmen of all ranks take PT tests every six months. Those who manage to score 90 or higher on their tests only take the test once a year.

"PT tests typically last one hour, from walking into the fitness center to stepping off the track," said Sedberry. "We test about nine hundred Airmen a month and twelve thousand annually."

Those who score below 75 points fail the test and must attend the Be-Well program. Be-Well participants are required to exercise four to five days a week with an assigned physical training leader who assists in any areas they need to improve. Airmen who fail their PT must retest within 90 days or with a commander's letter, within 42 days. Those who fail four times within two years face separation from the Air Force.

"I recommend exercising three to four times a week for at least an hour to stay in shape," said Sedberry. "If you need help on PT, call the Health and Wellness Center. They can instruct you on proper exercise technique and a healthy diet."

The Health and Wellness Center can help Airmen obtain better Fitness Assessment scores by offering instruction on proper form, workout routines, dieting and giving advice on how to live a healthier lifestyle.

For more information, call the Health and Wellness Center at 456-6011.