Incirlik Innovation: Fitness center implements innovative programs

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Michael Battles
  • 39th Air Base Wing Public Affairs
Editor's note: This article is part of a series designed to highlight innovative ideas, programs and actions that have or can save the Air Force money as well as improve mission readiness.

In today's Air Force, innovation is an essential part of accomplishing the mission. Each day, Airmen develop new and innovative ways to not only improve quality of life for the force, but also reduce resource usage and overall money spent Air Force-wide.

To enhance the quality of life at Incirlik Air Base, the 39th Force Support Squadron has implemented two programs to improve the overall fitness experience for their customers -- the towel program and fitness kiosk.

"These are leadership driven initiatives, to provide a little more for customers," said Theodore Hampton, 39th FSS sports and fitness director. "It's a necessity to make things more convenient for our daily customers."

Implemented on March 11, the towel program gives customers the ability to checkout a towel upon arrival at the fitness center for the duration of their workout. To utilize the program, individuals must register initially, but the registration is valid through the individual's entire assignment at Incirlik.

According to Hampton, the towel program, which is one-of-a-kind for the Air Force, cost the 39th FSS roughly $600 to start the program.

Along with the towel program, the Incirlik fitness center also implemented a fitness kiosk system, which is an augment to the fitness center class program.

The kiosk provides a 30 to 40 minute workout session with a virtual instructor in several fitness areas. Classes available virtually are kick boxing, group cycling, circuit training, core strength and strength training.

According to Master Sgt. Jordan Dion, 39th FSS fitness and sports superintendent, the kiosk is a substitute when no instructors are available.

"[The kiosk] provides an outlet for those who prefer to work out both in a group or on their own," said Dion.

On average, the kiosk saves the fitness center $10,000 annually.

Updated regularly with new workout routines, the Kiosk is available to all fitness center customers on a reservation basis.  For first time users, the fitness center staff will explain and setup the kiosk for use.

For more information on the new programs, contact the fitness center at 676-6086.