Charleston home to AMC's fittest fighters

Published May 12, 2004

CHARLESTON AIR FORCE BASE, S.C. -- According to the latest Air Mobility Command fitness test results, Charleston AFB people lead the command with an 82 percent passing rate.

"Our Health and Wellness Center, in conjunction with the Services Squadron, implemented many initiatives to prepare Charleston Airmen for the new fitness test," said Jason Ham, AMC exercise physiologist and a member of the HAWC here.

"This accomplishment is made possible largely by to the motivated and dedicated Fitness and Sports Center staff with the help of active-duty volunteers," added Capt. Jeff McClure, 437th Services Squadron Combat Support Flight commander.

He said the Fitness Center here has been opening 19 additional hours a week since December to meet the needs of more than 1,000 patrons daily. In addition to providing increased hours, the 437th SVS organizes monthly commander fun runs, purchased more than $100,000 in equipment, established certification training for 22 wing cycling instructors, and offers more than 30 aerobic classes weekly.

Capt. Sean Schumm, 437th Medical Group nutrition program manager, said one of the major reasons AMC is a fitness leader is because of the efforts of Mr. Ham and Maj. Bill Reynolds, who was previously assigned to the Charleston HAWC.

"These men have been proactive in promoting fitness initiatives at both Charleston and AMC," Captain Schumm said. "They began preparing the AMC fitness program managers and Health Promotion managers for these changes last year. I believe our proactive stance in AMC is what has separated us from other commands."

The Charleston HAWC established AMC's first Fit for Duty course in June of 2003, followed by a Fit for Duty Executive course. Both courses prepared unit fitness program managers, physical training leaders and base leadership for the upcoming fitness changes well in advance of their implementation, said Captain Schumm. He said this early introduction allowed Charleston personnel to begin preparing ahead of time for the new fitness standards.

"Overall, the excellence in fitness here is driven by the Fitness Center and HAWC staff and their unique capabilities, along with the dedication and support of the senior leadership," said Captain Schumm.

Base officials say they hope to continue to see a positive attitude among Airmen here, as well as a continued high rate of success on the new fitness test.

"When Airmen deploy, they are often operating in austere, less-than-clean conditions, working long days, in a high stress environment - all perfect recipes for illness and injury," said Col. Brooks Bash, 437th AW commander. "Fitness is the answer - fit Airmen are healthier and have greater stamina."