Revised PT test approaching: HAWC, fitness center can help

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Sondra Escutia
  • 49th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
HOLLOMAN AIR FORCE BASE, N.M. --  Because physical fitness is critical in maintaining combat readiness across the Air Force, the Domenici Fitness and Sports Center and 49th Medical Group Health and Wellness Center work together to continuously offer assistance to those who need it.

The fitness center and HAWC have programs in place to assist Airmen whether it is to help with the correct form of push-ups or to help shed pounds, and with the revisions to the Air Force physical training program coming soon, their services can be of great reward.

"It's important that the base knows what resources they have to help them with the PT program and what the fitness center can help them with, what [the fitness program manager] can help them with and what I can help them with as far as their waistline," said Master Sgt. Kevin Hartsock, HAWC flight chief and nutrition program manager. "They have the resources right here."

According to the Air Force Personnel Center Web site, Airmen will have to PT test biannually beginning Jan. 1, and new fitness standards are scheduled to be implemented July 1, but Holloman fitness officials said the time to begin preparing for the test is now.

"Folks need to get out there and practice to see where they stand prior to the day they have to test," said Sergeant Hartsock. "If they know they are a little weak on their push-ups or sit-ups, they need to train and focus on that and see one of the folks here that can help them with improving that component."

Although personal fitness is primarily the servicemember's responsibility, he added, unit physical training leaders are trained by the HAWC staff and qualified to assist their unit in staying fit. Because the new PT program score charts are already posted, the fitness officials said PTLs should begin testing their unit's ability to pass.

"I think it's imperative that the PTLs get out with their people and do some mock tests to see where they stand and tailor their squadron workout regimens based on the biggest weaknesses," said Sergeant Hartsock.

The Domenici Fitness and Sports Center can also help Airmen stay in shape. They offer state of the art equipment and services including 28 aerobics classes a week -- from cycling to Latin dancing -- and many of them are considered 'fitness improvement' classes. The complete schedule of aerobics classes is posted in the Domenici Fitness and Sports Center.

In addition to the classes, they also have a knowledgeable staff on hand to answer questions.

"All of our staff can work individually with people, help them set up and use the equipment or show them how to do specific exercises," said Bradley George, Domenici Fitness and Sports Center sports director. "We also have three people on staff who have their [personal training] license.

For those who need more help, the fitness program manager at the HAWC offers his services in writing exercise prescriptions as well as a different set of classes proven to increase fitness levels with full participation.

"We teach several different classes up here and I am always available to [help] anyone who needs it," said Kevin Fallon, Holloman fitness program manager.

Mr. Fallon conducts a "Back to Basics" class which is open to anyone but is primarily for those who have failed a PT test. This class improves fitness levels through rigorous workouts four days a week. He also offers an aqua jogging class for those on a profile and will work with individuals one-on-one to help them achieve their fitness goals.

"The first thing he really asks is 'What do you want to accomplish?'" said Sergeant Hartsock. "Then he tailors a workout plan based on what they want to accomplish, whether it's getting ripped, losing weight, improving their PT score or whatever it may be."

Equally important is Sergeant Hartsock's job as the nutrition program manager. Under the new PT standards, each component will have minimum requirement to pass, including a body composition measurement. He offers individual nutrition plans for those who are concerned with their body composition, blood pressure, diabetes or those would just like to eat a healthier diet.

"Eating unhealthy foods may be just as damaging to an Airmen's fitness level as overeating, which may lead to an adverse effect on their PT test score," he said. "It's important to make smart choices when it comes to eating."

Sergeant Hartsock said he works individually with people who have questions and if he has enough people calling, will put together a class to educate members on proper nutrition, because "good health and good nutrition go hand in hand."

For Airmen who need additional help with fitness, nutrition or preparing for the new PT test, contact the Domenici Fitness and Sports Center at 575-572-2529 or the HAWC at 575-572-5785.

More information on the new Air Force Fitness Program can be found at http://www.afpc.randolph.af.mil/affitnessprogram/index.asp.