Air Force takes next step in evolution of fitness culture

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class William O'Brien
  • 95th Air Base Wing Public Affairs
EDWARDS AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. --  With the implementation of the Air Force's new Physical Training instruction, once again, the Air Force will enhance its fitness culture.

"The changes coming next year are positive," said Chief Master Sgt. Eric Jaren, 95th Air Base Wing command chief. "The best part is the new system is supported by science, and the rationale behind each component has merit. All points will be achieved by weighing fitness performance against health risk factors."

The new test requirements are the next step in a long line of positive changes the Air Force has made toward becoming a culture of fitness.

"We've come a long way since I joined the Air Force, back in the early 1980's," said Chief Jaren." Back then, it would be unusual to see a formation run unless you were in basic military training at Lackland AFB. Now Airmen participate in formation runs with their unit, group, wing and even with the installation in mass, led by the Air Force Flight Test Center commander, Maj. Gen. David Eichhorn. It is easy to see the improvements we have made over the past twenty years."

Like everything, creating a culture of fitness starts with leadership. Edwards leadership shows a commitment to fitness by holding recurring basewide runs. During these runs, Airmen are in formation with their squadrons and run across designated paths led by the Air Force Flight Test Center commander. 

"When I see Airmen running, in formation, in the same uniform, I see a team--I see success! But our formation runs also make it apparent who has yet to embrace the fitness culture. Yes, we have come a long way in the past 20 years, but we have further to go," Chief Jaren said.
"The New Air Force Instruction will require Airmen to take two fitness tests a year. For those Airmen who have yet to embrace fitness, two tests a year should provide additional motivation to maintain fit lifestyle year round," the chief said.

The Chief believes that having two fitness tests a year will require them to stay on top of their fitness because another test will always be around the corner.

More important than motivating them to PT more frequently, the new test will help Airmen to identify potential health risks and address them to prevent possible health problems.

"PT isn't about being fit to test, it's about being fit to fight, and more than that is about being fit for life," said the Chief.