Whiteman Family Fitness Day: Make it a family thing

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Dilia Ayala
  • 509th Bomb Wing Public Affairs
WHITEMAN AIR FORCE BASE, Mo., --  In support of the Air Force's FitFamily initiative, the 509th Force Support Squadron will host Family Fitness Day March 6, 2010, at the Whiteman Fitness Center from 10 a.m.-12:30 p.m., as part of the Year of the Air Force Family.

FitFamily is a goal-incentive program intended to help stimulate interest and awareness of the importance of healthy lifestyle choices for Air Force families; and increase participation and awareness of Air Force child/youth programs and fitness center programs and services.

"We want to encourage families to come out and enjoy the day together," said Andrea Bauer, Whiteman Fitness Center staff member. "This event is set in a fun and safe environment, where parents and their children can spend time together while being active and learning about being healthy."

The fitness day is open to all active duty, Reserve and Guard members, Department of Defense and civilian families, retired military members, honorably discharged veterans with 100 percent service-connected disability, and former or surviving military spouses and their family members.

The day's events will be divided by age groups, and all activities require a parent and a child to work together. Age groups include: Ages 1-4, 5-8, 9-11, and 12-15. For each activity a child and parent participate in, they will receive a ticket to put into a drawing for a prize. Activities include: Stuck in the Mud, Towel Volleyball, Kids RUSH, Parachute Fun, and a Wii Fit Class and equipment orientation for youth 16 and older.

In addition to the fitness events, free food will be provided for all participants. Also, representatives from several on-base agencies will be on-hand as part of a Family Activities Fair. Representatives from the: Whiteman Community Center, Youth Center, Outdoor Recreation, a 509th Medical Group physical therapist and Whiteman Health and Wellness Center, will be available.

Also taking part in the fitness day festivities will be Sparky the Fire Dog, McGruff the Crime Dog and Sponge Bob.

"Families, come in fitness gear and get ready for some fun!" said Ms. Bauer. "No one will be on the side lines."

For more information, contact the fitness center at (660) 687- 5496 or visit their Web site at www.whitemanservices.com.