LACKLAND AIR FORCE BASE, Texas –
Recently the Air Force's fitness evaluations have changed to emphasize aerobic performance, accounting for 60 percent of the test instead of the previous 50.
The Health and Wellness Center's new running improvement program helps active-duty members address this new emphasis before it goes into effect by the projected January 2010 start date.
After reviewing recent satisfactory test scores, base fitness program manager Byron Black saw room for improvement.
"A lot of people, if they were assessed only on the run, would fail," Mr. Black said. "They pass because they do well enough, and have a skinny waist, or can do the sit-ups and push-ups."
Due to the run's increased importance, some run a greater risk of failing the fitness test. Mr. Black created the running improvement program to allow Airmen access to the advice of the base population's experienced runners.
"I would be embarrassed to take all the credit," he said. "The instructors are the ones that are out there, leading the course and giving up their time."
Running instructor Senior Master Sgt. Johnny Phelps finds improvement in running lends itself to other testing areas as well.
"Our overarching goal is to help people become more efficient runners," the avid distance runner said. "We focus more on the running aspect while push-ups are more of a by-product. Running, I think, is the key."
The six-week program includes an initial test to evaluate stride efficiency and overall running performance. Airmen are then fitted into beginner and intermediate groups.
Under the guidance of Lackland's proven runners, the program's 24 participants exercise an hour each morning, five days a week.
Senior Airman Robynne Robinson's mid-course fitness results have proved significant, losing body fat while gaining muscle mass during the three weeks.
Robinson started in the beginner group, but now in her fifth week has moved into the intermediate. She finds the instructor's guidance has been the most helpful.
"If you show up (the instructors) pretty much do the rest," she said. "They teach you to keep your head up, stand up straight, how to breathe properly and how your feet are supposed to land when you run."
Monday, Wednesday and Friday are run days. Spin classes on Tuesdays promote leg strength and endurance, without the joint impact associated with running. Step aerobics on Thursdays improve acceleration.
For some, joining the program can make all the difference in passing the fitness tests and continuing a career in the Air Force.
Staff Sgt. Paul Roetter wanted to do better on run times but he said the health benefits don't hurt either.
"It's a really intense course," he said. "I've lost six pounds of body fat already and regained the same amount in muscle."
In its nascent form, the course is being improved as feedback comes in. Currently in its second edition, the course was extended from four to six weeks.
The HAWC coordinates the course for active-duty servicemembers but after some tweaking, Mr. Black said it will be opened up to the squadron level.
To join the next course, Airmen need to provide a letter of commitment to the HAWC and have their commander or first sergeant provide consent.