Is the AF fit to fight?

CMSgt Mark Schubert — Fri, 28 Mar 2014 10:18:37 -0400

The Air Force implemented a new fitness program in 2004. In the last 10 years, has the program proven to be effective? I know when it first came out, almost everyone was against it and most refused to embrace the new program. Only within the past 3-4 years have Commanders (in general) embraced the program. What are your thoughts?

Response by SFC James Baber made Mar 28 at 2014 10:31 AM

SFC James Baber — Fri, 28 Mar 2014 10:31:30 -0400

It is pretty much the same for all the services, I think everyone created and implemented new fitness programs and regimes with the war or terror and dual wars being fought, now whether any of those new programs have proven successful is subjective to opinion. To me I think some of it has and majority of it has made for some new issues that are starting to reflect in the current health and fitness of our troops of today.

Response by CMSgt Charles Elliott made Mar 28 at 2014 3:09 PM

CMSgt Charles Elliott — Fri, 28 Mar 2014 15:09:23 -0400

I for one was glad the Air Force went back to a more traditional fitness program. The bike test, at least in my opinion, was a joke. I always took pride in my fitness and worked hard at it. I knew some people that were heavy smokers, overweight and out of shape that would pass the bike test with no preparation at all. At least running, doing pushups and setups is a better gage to see if you're fit to fight so to speak.

Response by SFC Michael Hasbun made Mar 31 at 2014 9:59 AM

SFC Michael Hasbun — Mon, 31 Mar 2014 09:59:27 -0400

So long as they can fly planes, push buttons, turn wrenches, flip burgers and do paperwork, I couldn't care less what an Airman's run time is. Can they do their job? THAT is being fit to fight. How we "fight" is very different amongst all the services. It's silly to worry about a underwater basket weavers sit up score...

Response by TSgt Jennifer Disch made Jan 2 at 2016 1:24 PM

TSgt Jennifer Disch — Sat, 02 Jan 2016 13:24:11 -0500

To truly be fit is a whole approach: mind, body and spirit. You have to be strong (physically and mentally) and not crack under pressure. Everyone can run when the time comes to run. Not everyone can lift or be flexible.