Air Force’s revamped fitness program begins soon Published June 1, 2010 By Senior Airman Tong Duong 17th Training Wing Public Affairs Office GOODFELLOW AIR FORCE BASE, Texas -- While the Air Force's new fitness program draws near, Airmen and unit physical training leaders have been pushing up and crunching out to prepare for that juncture. In less than a month, Airmen will begin their physical training test using new fitness assessment standards, a move by senior leaders to shape and mold healthier Airmen. "Our senior leadership has gone to great lengths to ensure every Airmen stays fit year- round," said Chief Master Sgt. Mark Long, the Air Force's chief of enlisted promotions, evaluations and fitness policy. "We want all Airmen to take fitness seriously. The days of 'cramming' for the annual fitness test will be replaced by an emphasis on year-round fitness. We were the only military service who did not test at least twice a year, and it's a definite step in the right direction to change the Air Force fitness culture." Although twice-a-year testing began Jan. 1, the Air Force delayed implementing the new fitness program until July 1, when Air Force Instruction 36-2905 becomes effective. Air National Guard members (active duty Guardsman technicians or those on drill status) will continue to test once a year under Title 32. With the implementation of the bi-annual fitness assessments, Airmen will receive an overall composite fitness score based on four components for a total of 100 possible points: a 1.5-mile timed run for aerobic fitness worth 60 points instead of 50 points, 20 points for body composition, and 10 points each for pushups and sit-ups. Additionally, Airmen must meet minimum requirements as defined by the new instruction for each of the four components. One quarter of testers are predicted to fail their test but have 90 days to retest. Under the new program, commanders may approve Airmen who volunteer to retest prior to the 42-day wait period if they are medically able and ready to test. According to 17th Force Support Squadron Fitness Assessment Cell members, all components of the fitness assessment are hinged on core stability. Without core stability, overall performance is hindered. "We notice members without core strength are unable to perform proper pushups, sit ups and have difficulty running their mile and a half assessment," said FAC member Tech. Sgt. Kristi Cruz, 17th Medical Operation Squadron. "We encourage more exercises that strengthen the core, such as the plank. Also, practice makes perfect." Airmen achieving and maintaining excellent fitness assessment scores will also be allowed to wear a patch on their PT uniform recognizing their accomplishments. Credit for fitness assessment scores to wear a patch becomes effective July 1. "I think for some it may be an extra incentive to strive for, however, living a healthy lifestyle is something that must be an internal choice only members can make," Sergeant Cruz said. "Any positive reinforcement members receive for maintaining a higher level of fitness is a step in the right direction." The patch is presently in the production stage and officials anticipate availability of the fitness patches in military clothing sales stores by late summer. For more information, visit www.afpc.randolph.af.mil/affitnessprogram. THE NEW FITNESS PATCH Design & Symbolism The physical fitness patch features a blue, stylized human figure over a representation of a globe, encircled by a red or gray band inscribed "AIR FORCE FITNESS" at the top and "EXCELLENCE" or "SUSTAINED EXCELLENCE" at the bottom. The globe represents the universal importance of fitness and the stylized human figure emphasizes the significance of striving for enhanced personal fitness for each Airman in today's Air Force. The patch for Airmen earning a perfect 100 score on their fitness test also features two lightning bolts in white or blue on the outside bottom of the circle for one time or sustained scores, respectively. Award Eligibility There are four types of physical fitness patches: Excellent: Airmen with a current fitness assessment score equal to or greater than 90 and meeting all component minimum requirements. Sustained Excellent: Airmen who score 90 or above on the fitness assessment four consecutive times over a two-year period and meeting all component minimum requirements. One-time Perfect 100: Airmen demonstrating maximum performance with a current fitness assessment score of 100. Sustained Perfect 100: Airmen demonstrating sustained maximum performance by scoring 100 points on their four most recent fitness assessments over a continuous two-year period. Airmen must meet the criteria on each subsequent test to continue to wear the badge. Wear Policy Physical fitness patches are authorized as an optional wear item worn on the right sleeve of the Air Force physical fitness T-shirt, long-sleeve shirt or sweatshirt. Airmen will only be allowed to wear the highest patch earned based on current score.
