HAWC helps Airmen get fit

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Alexandria Mosness
  • 86th Airlift Wing Public Affairs
RAMSTEIN AIR BASE, Germany --  With the New Year in full swing, the Ramstein Health and Wellness Center has been busy with the new Air Force physical standards put into effect this year.

While the new standards do not apply until July 1, the bi-annual testing begins with the start of 2010.

The HAWC has spent the last couple of months preparing to help people pass their fitness assessment.

"We provide all types of health and wellness," said Maj. Lisa Tauai, 86th Aerospace Medical Squadron HAWC Health Promotion Flight commander. "We are here not only for active duty, but also retirees and dependants. We cover everything from nutrition and fitness to basic weight loss."

The new Air Force fitness assessment standards have a lot of people worrying about not passing, Major Tauai said

"Many Airmen are worried they will not pass a certain area, the abdominal circumference
being one of the biggest concerns," the Major said.

To get Airmen more confident with the new standards, the HAWC offers many options for Airmen to get fit and healthy.

"We offer preventative options, so you don't fail the test," said Tech. Sgt. Darren Banks, 86th AMDS HAWC non-commissioned officer in charge. "Speak to the professionals here, rather than waiting until you fail. We have dieticians here, utilize them. Two classes offered are the basic weight loss class and the healthy living program."

Staying fit not only benefits Airmen, but keeps them battle ready.

"Active duty needs to be physically fit to deploy," Major Tauai said. "We all wear this uniform and that means you have to be physically tough enough to pull someone out of harms way if the situation calls for it."

Not only must Airmen be ready to be deployed,but also to better their personal well being.

"Take care of yourself," Major Tauai said. "It is your quality of life, and you want to be around to see your grandkids. If you don't take care of yourself, who will?"

Many people work out, but do not watch what they eat, and never see results.

"The best thing to do is to make being fit part of your lifestyle," Major Tauai added. "Become more active, exercise five times a week, and be consistent with what you are eating. Eat frequently, but watch how much you eat. Working out, but eating fast food is not the way to go."

Sometimes getting started is the hardest part of working out, but Sergeant Banks has one way to help this problem.

"Find a good workout buddy," he said. "Someone who is going to push you to work your hardest. Also, keep it interesting. Make sure you change up your routine so you don't get bored. Set goals and time your run time, so you can work harder every time you run."

Staying fit is not just to pass a test, but also to stay healthy.

"We can actually see the impact on people's life, Sergeant Banks said. "Not only can we help someone achieve their goal on their pt test, but we can help with high cholesterol and blood pressure. Detecting and helping with this could ultimately save a life."

For more information on the HAWC or classes offered, call 480-HAWC (4292).