Action line 90101 - Lifting weights in uniform

  • Published
  • By Anonymous
  • 39th Air Base Wing Public Affairs
INCIRLIK AIR BASE, Turkey --  Complaint: 

With the emphasis of 'Fit to Fight' and now with our MAJCOM/base BMI drive, being in shape is a high visibility item.

Weekday mornings between 6:30-7:30 a.m. and weekday evenings after 4:30-5:30 p.m. the gym on base is very busy. Due to the limited space in the weight room area, a standard 30 min routine can take twice as long during the high volume times.

I propose we allow people in uniform to work out in the weight room (not cardio room) area with their blouses off. This will allow people to lift weights during lunch time without spending time changing in and out of uniform. I have inquired about this to gym personnel, citing that other bases allow this, but was told it was against policy. Can we look at that policy again?

Response: 

Thank you for taking the time to make this suggestion. As you know, we are always looking for ways to enhance our services and improve our quality of life. In this case, our guidance is quite clear. It states "...athletic attire and an athletic-type shoe must be worn in all activity and equipment areas" supporting the appropriate image of a family fitness facility. Due to this guidance, it is necessary for us to continue enforcing fitness attire only in the facility. 

You seem to assume that you don't sweat when you lift weights...as a weight lifter I can tell you if you're not sweating some you're not working very hard. 

Thanks for taking the time to write.