Whiteman 'kicks' off Wing Fitness Day

  • Published
  • By Heidi Hunt
  • 509th Bomb Wing Public Affairs
WHITEMAN AIR FORCE BASE, Mo. --  The 509th Force Support Squadron sponsored the 2013 Wing Fitness Day at the Whiteman Fitness Center, Jan. 11.

"The event was used to introduce new instructors, new and existing fitness courses, nutrition classes and a health and fitness fair," said Michael Taylor, 509th FSS fitness center director. "Healthy individuals are able to stand up to the rigors of military duty in an easier manner, which is essential to keep a fighting force."

Fitness reduces illnesses and stress, and improves mental well-being, said Tech. Sgt. Angela Gooden, 509th FSS Fitness Center NCOIC. The annual event also supports and promotes morale and social skills.

"Moreover, Wing Fitness Day is devoted to assisting Whiteman members in fulfilling their New Year's resolutions and personal fitness goals," Gooden said.

Throughout the day, many activities were offered, such as equipment orientation and Micro-Fit Assessment, which identifies where appropriate health improvements should be made. Additionally, the Fitness Center also provided demonstration of, and opportunities to participate in, fitness classes, nutritional class, metabolic testing and BOD POD, a composition measurement test.

The free event offered classes including Spin, Boot Camp, Extreme Military Training, Turbo Kick, Yoga, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and Step Aerobics.

More than 250 individuals participated in the Wing Fitness Day, and many said they look forward to meeting and maintaining their fitness goals.

"I enjoy working out, and Wing Fitness Day provided me with an overview of classes I haven't participated in yet," said Kelly Lawhead, wife of Senior Airman David Lawhead, 509th Civil Engineer Squadron firefighter. "It was also a great opportunity to see more of what the Fitness Center and base health agencies have to offer."

The Fitness Center works closely with the HAWC staff, as both units' programs work hand-in-hand to promote health and fitness, according Taylor. Also present was Family Advocacy, Airman & Family Readiness and the Sexual Assault Prevention and Response Office.

"Overall, the Wing Fitness Day was beneficial because the hardest part is getting members in the door to see what we have to offer," Taylor said. "You wouldn't believe how many times we hear, 'I didn't know you had that.'"

Sometimes people just need a little push to get started on a life-changing journey, said Gooden.

"We offer assistance to start, and stay focused, on fitness," Gooden said. "Our customers come in all shapes and sizes, but share one common idea of wanting to improve their fitness."

While budget cuts have been made, the Fitness Center still surpasses the standard of 15 classes per week, offering 24, said Taylor. Additionally, the staff aims to provide numerous special events.
"Our Air Force special events standard is to have four a year and we are planning to offer 22," Taylor said. "Additionally, we provide all five intramural sports - football, basketball, volleyball, soccer and softball.

The Fitness Center has events scheduled for every month in 2013. Customers can look forward to the Whiteman Winter Games, Family Fitness Day, Whiteman Triathlon, multiple wing 5Ks, the Striker Life half-marathon and more.

For more information contact the Fitness Center at 660-687-5496 or visit www.whitemanfss.com.