May is National Fitness Month

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Christopher Gross
  • 3rd Wing Public Affairs
ELMENDORF AIR FORCE BASE, Alaska --  May is National Fitness Month and the Elmendorf Fitness Center staff is playing their part by making a number of activities available throughout the period.

Events planned for the month include a bench-your-own-weight competition May 7, a pet fun run May 8, a racquetball tournament May 14 and a armed services run May 15.

The fitness center focuses on staying fit year round.

"We promote fitness everyday of the year," said Tom Lawson, Elmendorf Fitness Center manager.

Now is the time of year when the sun is out for long periods of time and people feel energized to get to the gym or be outside said Mr. Lawson.

He also said that the fitness center attendance numbers are at record highs this year, some days reaching nearly more than 3,000 visitors compared to last year's highs which would top out at approximately 2,300 visitors. Lawson said he feels it's due to the new Air Force PT test which is scheduled to take affect July 1 of this year.

"Since the new guidelines have come out, we've been busier than we've ever been," said Mr. Lawson.

Elmendorf provides its Arctic Warriors with some great equipment which gives them the option to stay in shape to the best of their ability.

The center has 158 pieces of cardio equipment and 152 pieces of strength equipment. They also provide an indoor track, three full-size basketball courts, and six racquetball courts which can also be transformed into wallyball courts.

Not only is being in shape important to pass the Air Force PT test, but it also improves the way people feel about themselves, said Mr. Lawson. It provides good mental health and helps people in every part of their physical being, he added. There's nothing but positives that come from exercising.

Mr. Lawson said he understands that it may be hard for some Airmen to find time in their busy schedules, but it is essential they find some time to fit a workout in, whether it's before work, during their lunch break or after work.

Senior Airman Kristina Eilts, 3rd Force Support Squadron, also added that it's important to maintain a healthy lifestyle. She said that unfortunately these days more people are overweight and it's crucial to have a fitness plan.

For more questions about the upcoming events from above call, 552-3624.