PT: A way of life at the 'Lik'

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Patrice Clarke
  • 39th Air Base Wing Public Affairs
Monday, Wednesday and Friday, for many people here those three days remind Team Incirlik of one thing ... physical training. 

Whether you are working out at the gym or running at Arkadas Park, getting physically fit is a way of life at Incirlik and for good reason. 

No longer is the purpose of working out to pass a test, but to be in shape. 

Gen. John Jumper, former Chief of staff of the Air Force who introduced the new PT
test said, "The focus is not on passing a fitness test once a year. More important, we
are changing the culture of the Air Force. This is about our preparedness to deploy and fight. It's about warriors. It is about instilling an expectation that makes fitness a daily standard - and essential part of your service." 

With more and more Airmen deploying in harsh conditions being physically prepared
is important. So if getting physically fit is what you need to do, there are plenty of places on base to help. 

The base fitness center offers many ways for base members to get into shape. From free cardio kick boxing classes to step aerobics. The classes are offered at various
times, which accommodate all base members. Not only does the fitness center offer
many classes they also offer personal trainers. 

"There is a certified personal trainer working here that base members are allowed and encouraged to utilize," said Senior Airman Kiana Edge, 39th Services Squadron fitness center staff. 

The personal trainer can help with fitness workouts, assessments and even help members along with the workout. 

"All base members need to do is make an appointment and the personal trainer will be happy to help," said Airman Edge. 

The fitness center isn't the only place that offers a chance to workout. With the heat rising on Incirlik, cooling off is the way to go. This opens up water aerobics. 

"Water aerobics is a great way to get fit," said Brandi Ruiz, military spouse and water aerobics class member. "I go every week to cool off and to get a great workout." 

Another place to help shape up is the base health and wellness center. They offer education and nutrition classes. 

"We also have all the equipment here for a workout," said Robert PagenKoph,  39th Medical Group health and wellness center technician. "We also help members who are on profiles that still want to stay in shape." 

The HAWC also offers monthly fitness events open to the public. August's event
is an Aerobicathon at the fitness center from 9 to 11 a.m. Aug. 19 at the fitness center.
To sign up, call the HAWC at 676-4292. 

No matter how Airmen stay physically fit and prepared, the point is the same: be
physically fit so that Airmen can be mentally alert to do the mission.