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McConnell Airman shares fitness story of success

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Armando A. Schwier-Morales
  • 22nd Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs
MCCONNELL AIR FORCE BASE, Kan. --  While deployed, Airmen face many challenges but one McConnell Airman transformed her mental and physical obstacles into a fitness success story.

Staff Sgt. Michelle Rose, 22nd Operations Support Squadron aviation resource management NCO in charge, began her battle to improve her fitness in September 2009. Her physical fitness test score was 76 points, one point from failing, and it affected many parts of her life.

"I weighed 175 pounds and was completely unhappy with myself," said Sergeant Rose. "My self esteem was low, therefore, I never wanted to go out when friends asked me."

She was tasked with a deployment to Southwest Asia where her transformation began.

"The day after I got to my deployed location, I went to the gym in the coalition compound," said Sergeant Rose. "I asked for a workout plan, and a civilian employee offered to train me."

With the help of friends, Sergeant Rose continued her regiment during her deployment and dropped 45 pounds.

"I trained six days a week for 114 days, and cardio and weightlifting was the key to my success," said Sergeant Rose.

She returned to McConnell AFB in December 2009 with a changed mindset and new lifestyle. She scored 94.9 points on her physical training test.

"The changes have made her healthier and have given her a more positive outlook on life and the future," said Master Sgt. Clayton Raub, 22nd OSS chief host aviation resource management.

The changes in her personal life led to improvements in Sergeant Rose's professional life, according to Sergeant Raub.

"She is able to supervise and lead better because now she can come from the standpoint, 'I am doing this and there is no reason you can't,'" Sergeant Raub said.

Sergeant Rose has been leading and encouraging others in her squadron during their PT.

"When we PT, she is leading it and putting her energy out on other people ... and they take it well," said Sergeant Raub. "How can you not take it from someone that actually went from where she was to where she is now?"

Having dropped down to 117 pounds and striving for a perfect score, Sergeant Rose said she will continue to improve her health every day by improving on all aspects of her life.

"I will continue to always be physically fit -- and the happiness that it has brought me is more than words can describe," she said.