The importance of physical training

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Nicholas Benroth
  • 23rd Wing Public Affairs
MOODY AIR FORCE BASE, Ga. --  Being in top physical condition is about being combat-ready. But it's also about being mentally prepared to handle anything that comes their way.

Some people may consider physical training not worth their time, but maintaining a fit force can help Airmen invest in their own wellness.

"Being fit is a personal thing for me- it just makes life easier," said Tech. Sgt. Marcy Williams, 23rd Comptroller Squadron budget analyst and physical training leader. "When I'm in shape, I don't feel physically or mentally tired and that in turn makes my life better."

The Air Force fitness program goal is to motivate Airmen to participate in a year-round physical conditioning program that emphasizes total fitness, to include proper aerobic conditioning, strength and flexibility training, and healthy eating.

"Now more than ever, we must remain both flexible and agile to ensure combat readiness. We must maintain our ability to not just fight, but win conflicts across the full spectrum of military operations while considering how we build partnerships for the way forward," said General William M. Fraser III, Commander of ACC, during a statement released March 2011.

The Air Force has seen the percentage of Airmen passing the test increase from 77.9 percent to 82.6 percent in the first three months of the revised fitness program. Additionally, the rate of Airmen scoring 90 points or greater has nearly doubled since 2009.

The test consists of body composition evaluated by abdominal circumference measurements, and an aerobic component evaluated by the 1.5-mile timed run and muscular fitness component evaluated by the number of pushups and sit-ups completed within one minute.

"When I take my physical training assessment, I make it a challenge to not just pass, but strive to get excellent," said Sergeant Williams. "When I found out that I did receive an excellent, I was ecstatic and happy that I didn't have to test for another year."

Each Airman participates in a physical assessment once or twice a year, depending if they scored above a 90 or above on their previous test.

The new fitness standard that went into effect July 1, 2010 mandates that Airmen must pass each portion of the test to earn an overall passing score.

"To train with a group or a squadron is so important because some people may need motivation to push themselves to work out harder," said Sergeant Williams. "That's one reason that PTLs are here- to ensure that each member is in top shape and ready to fight."

Fitness is not just something to do every six months or once a year, it's something Airmen should do year round.