An MQ-9 Reaper sits on the flight line at Hurlburt Field, Fla., May 3, 2014.The MQ-9 Reaper is an armed, multi-mission, medium-altitude, long-endurance remotely piloted aircraft that is employed primarily as an intelligence-collection asset and secondarily against dynamic execution targets. (U.S. Air Force photo illustration/Staff Sgt. John Bainter)

Commentaries

Consistent fitness key to PT test success

  • Published
  • By Tech. Sgt. Jasmin Taylor
  • 919th Special Operations Wing Public Affairs
DUKE FIELD, Fla. --  Fitness has always been a cornerstone of my Air Force career development.  My first physical assessment was in basic training.   At the initial assessment, I was able to perform the sit-ups, but I was told the one push-up and 18-minute mile and a half were a problem.  With persistent training, I was able to pass the final assessment.

I was recently informed a passing fit-to-fight score has more leverage in career advancement than ever before.  Not only does it appear on an enlisted progress report, but it also plays a part in selection for temporary duty assignments, awards and retention.  With four failed fitness assessments in a 24-month period it forces the commander to recommend discharge.

As Airmen, it is imperative to maintain capabilities and endurance and strive to be at peak performance.  I have found quality exercise, nutrition, mental status, and routine for physical fitness are supported by mentorship. Find someone able to surpass these standards and seek their help in mentoring toward success.  A running partner or pacer is an example for motivation and competition.

Look for proven exercise routines, nutrition plans, and take advantage of helpful technology.  There are many apps available with quick total body workouts anyone can perform.  If one works, share it with others.  A colleague recently shared a seven-minute workout app that works great for core conditioning.

A healthy diet is just as important as fitness is. I don't mean the newest myth of a magic pill or shake either.  Talk to a nutritionist, some are even available on base.  Find ways to properly incorporate healthy meals high in protein and low in carbohydrates accompanied by colorful fruits and vegetables. As I continue to experience, exercise alone is not enough to get the desired waist measurement or anticipated run time.  I recently incorporated a raw diet of radishes, pecans, kale, almond butter and coconut milk. I noticed quick and healthy results in my waistline and mental acuity.

Fitness is not just physical either.  Stressful days are plentiful and incorporating a workout provides one's body stress release. Exercises can also provide something else to stay focused on rather than being distracted by ailments and life's trials.

Once I get into a routine with an exercise program and see results my enthusiasm to exercise is revitalized. The problem is keeping the enthusiasm year round.  The Air Force Instruction 36-2905 recommendation consists of 90 minutes intervals at three to five times a week.  For me, adding another 90 minutes to my schedule can become tricky.

I've often been guilty of being one of the many Airmen who train just prior to their fitness assessment. Excuses are plentiful and life manages to continue to put up obstacles. However, if I want something bad enough, I figure out a way to make it happen.  Set the excuses and hurdles such as "I don't have time, or my foot hurts" out of your path to physical fitness.  Some Airmen have medical issues that prevent them from performing certain exercises.  If this happens, there are a variety of other exercises and programs available provided by the base health and wellness center or the force support squadron. There is no excuse for not doing something to stay in shape. 

Maintaining year-round fitness prevents injuries, keeps your body functioning better and leads to healthier Air Force lifestyles. Make fitness a permanent lifestyle and your body and the Air Force will escalate your Air Force career endeavors.