The next level of PT

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Rachelle Coleman
  • 354 Fighter Wing Public Affairs
EIELSON AIR FORCE BASE, Alaska --  As physical training standards increase and continue to become stricter, Airmen are still responsible for meeting and maintaining fitness standards. Eielson's PT program is leading the way and was validated by a Staff Assistance Visit from Pacific Air Forces Headquarters. But for those individuals who need a little assistance keeping up, the Health and Wellness Center is open to help.

Airmen interested in getting help for their PT test may visit the HAWC for assistance and feedback. HAWC personnel can schedule practice testing, do measurements or check to make sure that Airmen are using the proper form when doing push-ups and sit-ups.

"We have people come in all the time," said Master Sgt. Terry Patterson, NCOIC of the HAWC. "What people put into their PT program is what they're going to get out."

The fitness testing specialists are trained to look closely at everything an Airman does during the PT test when counting sit-ups and push-ups. Those are the only individuals that are watching the testers.

"I walk around as quality control to make sure there aren't any issues," said Sergeant Patterson. "I make sure the specialists are catching errors and correct Airmen when they're doing something wrong."

Many Airmen don't realize their form is wrong until they go to test and only half of their sit-ups or push-ups are counted by the fitness testing specialists.

According to AFI 10-248, for push-ups members are required to bend their elbow bent at least 90 degrees or more before pushing back up to the starting position. If they do not come down far enough, the push-up will not count. The member completes one full push-up after returning to the starting position.

For sit-ups, Airmen are required to keep their hands in contact with their shoulders or upper chest at all times. For a sit-up to count, the upper torso of the member must rise off the floor, the elbows touch the knees or thighs, and the upper torso lowered back until the shoulder blades touch the floor. Elbows must touch the knees or thighs at the top of the crunch, and the shoulder blades must touch the floor at the bottom of the crunch.

"I'd rather let them know at a practice than at a test any day," said Senior Airman Jason Unovitch, a fitness testing specialist. "We're here during the week and do both single and group practice tests for those who are interested."

The HAWC is open Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.