LACKLAND AIR FORCE BASE, TEXAS –
Competition is getting under way in the Fittest Fighter 2008 contest with more than 80 participants pre-registered and several more expected to sign up before the new extended deadline of Feb. 8.
Anyone with a Department of Defense identification card who is at least 18 years old is eligible to compete in the challenge to determine the fittest person after three months.
Participants must pre-register and sign up for a free initial Microfit and Metabolic Testing Assessment.
Assessments will also be done after 30 days and 90 days.
"We tried this program a year ago and it was a grand slam and every appointment was filled," said Kenneth Hack, Warhawk Fitness Center director and base fitness director. "Customers love the idea of having a sound medical baseline assessment that they can touch."
Each participant also gets three one-hour blocks with a personal trainer. The first prize winner will receive a free 30-minute massage, a gift bag of Lackland fitness prizes and a six-month supply of sports drink, all valued at $155.
"If you would go down -town to one of the fitness centers, this type of testing and the three personal trainer sessions would run you in the upwards of $250 per person. It's a win-win for everyone," said Mr. Hack.
Participants range in age, background and squadrons, but all are interested in improving their physical fitness.
"I saw the flyer and thought it was a great opportunity first for my own fitness and second to help set the standard," said Chief Master Sgt. Paul Weseloh, Air Force Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance Agency command chief. "We as leaders talk about fit to fight, it always helps if you are personally involved in some self improvement."
Clearly the competition is what attracted some of the participants.
"I think I'm in pretty good shape now but I think if I compete for it I can get into even better shape," said Capt. Sparkle Graham, 59th Crisis Care Squadron.
One of the participants, Senior Airman Louis Favela, 59th Medical Operations Squadron, underwent his medical assessment Monday. He weighed in at 272 pounds with 32 percent body fat.
"I have been meaning to get back into the weight room and I figure this will be a pretty good confidence booster and motivation," said Airman Favela. "Then I saw that you also meet with a trainer three times a week and that was pretty much what sealed it for me."
Airman Favela has agreed to allow the Talespinner to track his progress. He is scheduled to meet with a personal trainer soon and will have a second medical assessment in a month.
For more information about the Fittest Fighter 2008 contest, call 671-1995, 0854, 4850 or 2632.