BE-WELL program gives Airmen tools to construct fitness resiliency

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Benjamin Raughton
  • 2nd Bomb Wing Public Affairs
BARKSDALE AIR FORCE BASE, La. --  The Health and Wellness Center provides Airmen who are struggling with fitness the tools they need to get healthy and pass physical fitness tests.

"Balanced Eating, Working out Effectively; Live a long, healthy and productive Life," commonly known as BE-WELL, gives Airmen the tools they need to overcome areas of weakness in their physical training, be it strength, endurance or form.

Recently, the program changed from a three-hour lecture to physical education designed to meet Airmen's specific fitness needs, specifically Airmen struggling with PT tests.

An Airman's unit fitness program manager and commander will decide which classes the Airmen attend based on the failed portion of the test, said Amanda Bowman, HAWC health promotion dietician.

For example, if an Airman fails the run portion of the PT test, they may attend classes to improve their running.

"We want to give Airmen a solid foundation because some of them don't know where to begin getting help," said Leah Beckham, HAWC health and fitness specialist. "I don't show power points for BE-WELL. Instead, we meet in the gym for hands-on activities and workouts."

Airmen who are lacking in speed, endurance or form, can take BE-WELL classes such as Jet Fuel or the RIP to become more prepared for their next PT test.

"Now, Airmen get a more in-depth view of military nutrition and the programs are more interactive," said Bowman. "It's up to the Airman to seek out assistance. Just because they don't pass the run doesn't mean they can't do other classes to improve their health."

Bowman doesn't want the BE-WELL Nutrition Program to have the negative stigma associated with PT failure, she said. Instead, she designed the Jet Fuel course around military-specific performance nutrition concepts and research, which applies to all active duty and reserve personnel, not just those struggling with the PT test.

Participating Airmen can also learn about weight management and supplements, or attend a community education series to warn Airmen of the dangers of fad diets, and learn how to prepare healthy meals and snacks.

Bowman advises Airmen not to set themselves up for failure by "cramming" for the PT test or relying on questionable safety of supplements - some of which are prohibited by the Department of Defense. Rather, fitness and nutrition should be a daily part of an active lifestyle.

To enroll, Airmen should contact their unit fitness program manager, or for more information, contact the HAWC at 456-8046.