Airmen commit to fight for fitness

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Armando A. Schwier-Morales
  • 22nd Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs
MCCONNELL AIR FORCE BASE, Kan. --  The time has arrived for Team McConnell members to fulfill their New Year's resolutions -- but setting the goal was just the first step.

Though New Year's resolutions can vary from improving health to organizing the house, some Airmen have set goals to improve their fitness and their lifestyle.

"The hardest part of any type of New Year's resolution is following through," said Lou Stadler, 22nd Aerospace Medical Squadron health promotion flight chief. "You have to have some willpower, some knowledge about your goal and be dedicated."

Airmen do not have to fight this battle alone, as McConnell's Health and Wellness Center nutrition and fitness experts provide a variety of programs and information to Airmen and their families.

"The HAWC has great resources for individuals looking to make lifestyle changes," said Mr. Stadler. "In each one of the programs we try to incorporate fitness, nutrition and behavioral modification. When we can get all these things together it makes it a lot easier for individuals to accomplish healthy lifestyle goals."

These programs include Cholesterol Evaluation, Body Composition Improvement and many more opportunities. One of the HAWC's other successful programs was the Holiday Fitness Challenge, which challenged 25 Airmen to maintain their weight during the holidays. It concluded Jan. 7, 2011. All the programs are available to Team McConnell members to help with their New Year's resolutions.

"My husband and I want to improve our fitness by spending time together at the gym, and following along with workout videos," said Christine Smith, Debs Café barista.

Quality time is only one reason to keep the commitment; another motivation is the Air Force emphasis on a healthier lifestyle.

"My objective is to get down to 10 minutes and 30 seconds on my mile and a half run time," said Staff Sgt. Kevin Franklin, 22nd Force Support Squadron First Terms Airman's Center team leader. "I want to do it because the physical training standards are stricter and it's a serious issue."

Whatever the commitment may be, or the reason behind it. The HAWC recommends using the "smart" model (specific, measurable, achievable, realistic and timely goals,) along with slow and steady steps to help complete the resolution.

"Having small and realistic goals is probably the most important part of [resolutions], then having proper progression in those goals," said Mr. Stadler.

For more information about the HAWC or their programs, call 759-6024.