New fitness program 'hits the ground running' Published Sept. 1, 2009 By Senior Master Sgt. Ellen L. Hatfield 349th AMW Public Affairs TRAVIS AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- In an effort to make Airmen responsible for their fitness and health throughout the year, revisions to the Air Force fitness program take effect Jan. 1, 2010. But the new guidelines are here now, and Brig. Gen. Maryanne Miller, 349th Air Mobility Wing commander, wants wing Airmen to embrace the fitness culture. "As Airmen we must instill a 'culture of fitness,' and not just surge in your physical activity right before your fitness evaluation" the General said. "As we age, this fitness culture becomes even more important for our health and well being. Don't let the pressures of your job force fitness out of your daily routine. I support fitness and take time out of my schedule to run and do my weight training. Follow my lead; you have earned time in your day to take care of yourself and your physical training." With the new standards, Airmen will test twice per year. That includes air reserve technicians and any reservist on an active tour of duty. With another change, minimum requirements must be passed for each component, including getting a passing score of 75 or better. Tests will be conducted at central locations called Fitness Assessment Cells, according to program guidelines outlined at the Air Force Personnel Center website. This means fitness assessment cell staff complete assessments; or, in the absence of cells, a certified unit fitness program manager or a physical training leader. Here are some highlights of changes to the program: · The aerobic run will account for 60 percent of the score; body composition for 20 percent. Muscle fitness - pushups and sit-ups - will remain 10 percent each. · Age groupings will change to 10-year groups from 5-year groups, and are science based and simpler. · There are minimum component requirements, and a composite score of 75 is required to pass the test. · Beginning with the first half of calendar year 2010, Airmen will be required to test before the end of the month in which they are due, and then again six months later, to remain current. · For Airmen on a Profile, the ergo-cycle, 3-mile walk, or STEP will not be used. Instead, members who cannot run based on a profile will perform a 1-mile walk that will determine VO2 max capability. Also, if an Airman is exempt from any component, they will be in a "pass" - 75 or higher - or "fail" - below 75 - category. The new Air Force Fitness Program, including frequently asked questions, fitness charts, and more, is on the AFPC website at: http://www.afpc.randolph.af.mil/affitnessprogram/ General Miller emphasizes it is the responsibility of each Wing member to track when their fitness testing is due, stay current, and have a safe and healthy routine. "Being in denial could affect your Air Force career," she said. "If you forget to complete your fitness test, and your officer or enlisted performance report comes due, you will receive a 'referral' OPR or EPR. That could mean a delayed promotion, or perhaps end your career."