Variety in fitness classes means 'no excuses' for Airmen

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Danielle Wolf
  • 442nd Maintenance Squadron
WHITEMAN AIR FORCE BASE, Mo. --  One day you may choose to race to the finish line after a gruesome uphill ride at a mid-day spinning class. The next, you practice your belly dancing and hip hop techniques - all the while your heart is pumping and your waistline is melting away. 

For years Whiteman Air Force Base has shown military members and their families that a healthy lifestyle is important. But anyone who has seen the schedule of events taking place at the fitness center lately will certainly notice the surge of new classes offered. 

Currently there more than 130 different fitness classes are offered throughout the month. 

Beginning at 5:30 a.m. anyone with base access has the opportunity to practice their spinning techniques on state-of-the-art exercise bicycles. To end their day, patrons can take yoga at 6:30 p.m. 

With up to seven classes offered each weekday, Airmen, family members and civilians are given the chance to get fit at their convenience. Many of these classes last 45 minutes to an hour and incorporate an aerobic workout, strength training and stretching. 

"(The new schedule) gives everyone the opportunity to work out," said Greg Houser, fitness center director. "Now people have no excuses." 

According to Mr. Houser, the increase in classes is attributed to incoming money during the new fiscal year, a full staff and increased participation from dependents and civilians on the base. While previous fitness instructors were contracted privately, now the fitness center staff is certified and teaches almost all of the classes offered. 

For local reservists, classes offered throughout the day are beneficial, as the military members juggle both a civilian and military career. These military members still must comply with Air Force fitness standards. But unlike the active-duty military, these Airmen are not given physical training time from their civilian employers. 

Senior Airman Brian Bilbruck, 442nd Maintenance Squadron, said he and his wife currently pay $40 per month to take a spinning class once a week in Warrensburg. 

"Now we'll be more apt to come here since they have more morning and afternoon classes," Airman Bilbruck said. 

The increase in classes paired with new Elipticals and strength training equipment could make fitness during the holidays much easier this year. 

While many people have already taken advantage of the new equipment independently, other fitness patrons prefer classes to stay motivated and mix up their routine. These high-energy, calorie-burning classes are not just for advanced kick-boxers or yoga gurus though. 

"They are good for beginners who are just trying to become active," said Dr. Nita Hawk, health promotions director. "(It's also) a great way to meet people and have camaraderie with others trying to get fit." 

The surge in new fitness classes has come at time of year when many people begin losing their regular work out routines to cold weather and darkness. The holidays also provide a challenge with their decadent desserts and filling family meals. 

Dr. Hawk said this can make nutrition and fitness a challenge during the holidays. She suggests making an appointment with yourself to exercise every day; informing those around you that you are trying to stay fit; and saying it aloud, as that can make people feel more accountable to others. 

A fitness schedule can be found at www.whitemanservices.com in the weekly slides.