445th Airmen test under new fitness standards

  • Published
  • By Stacy Vaughn
  • 445th Airlift Wing Public Affairs
WRIGHT-PATTERSON AIR FORCE BASE, Ohio --  The July unit training assembly was not a routine month for reservists from the 445th Airlift Wing taking their annual physical fitness test. It was the first time wing Airmen had to take their fitness test under the new Air Force fitness standards.

The Air Force's new fitness standards were deemed necessary by senior Air Force leaders to ensure a fitter and healthier fighting force. Changes include bi-annual testing, minimum requirements within testing components and establishing fitness assessment cells to proctor tests.

The four components of the new fitness test include a 1.5-mile timed run, abdominal circumference, push-ups and sit-ups.

According to an Air Force fitness memorandum, Airmen who earn an "excellent" on the new fitness test will now only have to test once a year according to a new revision to the Air Force Fitness Program. The revision, which took effect the same day the new program kicked-off July 1, allows those Airmen who test in all four components of the test and receive an overall score of 90 or better to test only once a year. These Airmen will retest by the last day of the month, 12 calendar months following the previous "excellent" test date.

"Something everyone needs to keep in mind with the new standards is that you can't just do the minimums because then you're setting yourself up for failure. Push yourself and strive to do the best that you can. Help each other out by motivating each other during the test," Lt. Col. Kevin Chambers, 445th Airlift Wing fitness program manager said.

How it stands right now, Airmen whose last test date was in 2009 are due to test again exactly one year from that date. However, Airmen whose last test date was in 2010 are to test six months from that date and every six months after that. The only exception to that rule is scoring a 90 or above with no waivers and without failing any portion of the test.

"The test has always been challenging and fundamentally hasn't changed. If our Airmen prepare themselves with strength training, regular aerobic exercise and a healthy diet, they should have no problems. This test should never be one that our folks wait until four weeks from their test date to start their training," Chief Master Sgt. Peri Rogowski, 445th Airlift Wing command chief, said.

Airmen must meet with their unit fitness managers to schedule a test date. On the test date Airmen must bring their Fitness Screening Questionnaire (which you must be completed one month before testing) and their score sheet. Not having these documents will result in being turned away and not being able to test that day.

"This is a lifestyle change and hopefully one that will enhance our Airman's quality of life. But as with any new process, there will be challenges and things that need to be ironed out. We must show our true Reserve Airmanship and practice good military bearing and patience," Chief Rogowski said.

All PT tests will be given at Jarvis Gym, which is located behind the Pitsenbarger Airmen's Dining Facility in the Kittyhawk area of the base. In order to test, Airmen must be on military pay status and in uniform. Airmen may not come in and test on their own time. Tests will be given on Saturday and Sunday at 8 a.m. 1 pm.

More information about the new Air Force fitness program, visit http://www.afpc.randolph.af.mil/affitnessprogram/.