PTRC gives Airmen an edge on fitness assessments

Tech Sgt. Richard James, physical training rehab course participant, performs ladder push-ups during PTRC at Barksdale Air Force Base, La., October 25, 2016. PTRC also allows people who are recovering from injuries to get an effective workout without the worry of reinjuring something. (U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Airman Luke Hill)

PTRC gives Airmen an edge on fitness assessments

Senior Airman Adrienne Granadil, physical training rehab course participant, performs push-ups on a bosu ball during PTRC at Barksdale Air Force Base, La., October 25, 2016. PTRC is run by experienced medical and fitness personnel to ensure exercises are safe and effective. (U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Airman Luke Hill)

PTRC gives Airmen an edge on fitness assessments

Senior Airman Tanaysha Redding, physical training rehab course participant, prepares to do a medicine ball workout during PTRC at Barksdale Air Force Base, La., October 25, 2016. PTRC uses lower, upper and full body exercises to create strength and endurance in participants. (U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Airman Luke Hill)

PTRC gives Airmen an edge on fitness assessments

Airman 1st Class Jennifer Raad, physical training rehab course instructor, conducts exercises during a physical training rehab course at Barksdale Air Force Base, La., October 25, 2016. PTRC attendees have seen an average of a 50 percent increase on PT test scores. (U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Airman Luke Hill)

PTRC gives Airmen an edge on fitness assessments

Published Oct. 27, 2016
By By Senior Airman Luke Hill
2nd Bomb WIng Public Affairs

BARKSDALE AIR FORCE BASE, La. -- “Just what I needed to get back in shape after I hurt my knee.” “I highly recommend it for anyone regardless of fitness level.” “Improved my physical health drastically.” “I owe my latest PT pass to this program.”

These are just a few testimonials of students who have attended a newly developed physical fitness program designed to help people struggling with their fitness assessment scores.

Originating in a 2nd Medical Group rehab program, the 6-week physical training rehab course aids Airmen in improving their physical fitness and as a result, their physical fitness test scores.

“We know there are a lot people who either fail or are on that marginal stand-point, so we want to prepare them and give them confidence when it comes to the PT test,” said Tech. Sgt. Aaron McGee, 2nd MDG course founder. “Our goal is to have everybody who participates score an 85 or above on their FA.”

While the importance of fitness is not lost on most Airmen, not everyone is educated on how to get there. Many are worried about injuring themselves or how to exercise after recovering from an injury. With PTRC, participants are trained by experienced medical and fitness personnel who customize workouts to the needs of the Airmen and push them through struggles when necessary.

“The people who are running the course are either trained to, or have knowledge in, modifying exercises to make them safe and effective. If a student has an injury or pain we can modify the exercise so they still benefit from it, but it’s safer and less painful,” said McGee.

PTRC not only has professionals giving you customized workouts, but also a team atmosphere where individuals build each other up and push each other.

Senior Airman Tanaysha Redding, course participant, says she thinks the program is excellent and she enjoys the environment with everyone encouraging each other.

With an average of a 34 point or 50 percent increase on FA scores for the students, PTRC runs like a well-oiled machine and is producing results that makes attendees say it was all worth it.

“Most people don’t realize how much they have improved until their mock FA at the end of the course. We have a lot of people losing 1-2 minutes off their run times!” said McGee.

For those who need to pass a FA or are just looking to improve their conditioning level, PTRC is a tried and proven choice to get you there.

For more information on PTRC or to sign up, contact McGee at 318-456-6300