News>Wolf Pack Airmen Stay Fit to Fight During Exercises
Photos
Col. John Pearse, 8th Fighter Wing commander, leads Wolf Pack group commanders in push-ups during exercise Beverly Midnight 12-03 on Kunsan Air Base, Republic of Korea, July 10, 2012. This is one way Airmen stay in shape during exercises when the fitness center is closed. This tradition was started by previous Wolf Pack Class 2011-12. (U.S. Air Force photo/Staff Sgt. Michael Schocker)
Members of the 8th Fighter Wing perform push-ups during exercise Beverly Midnight 12-03 on Kunsan Air Base, Republic of Korea, July 10, 2012. This is one way Airmen stay in shape during exercises when the fitness center is closed. This tradition was started by previous Wolf Pack Class 2011-12. (U.S. Air Force photo/Staff Sgt. Michael Schocker)
by 2 Lt. Brionna Ruff
8 Fighter Wing Public Affairs
7/10/2012 - KUNSAN AIR BASE, Republic of Korea -- When operational readiness exercises take place at the Wolf Pack, a number of non-essential facilities close on base to provide a realistic wartime training environment for Airmen.
One closed facility in particular, the fitness center, results in Kunsan Airmen finding alternative ways to get in "PT time."In Wolf Pack Class 2012-13's first base exercise, Airmen are continuing a tradition that was started by class 2011-12 as a way to get their physical fitness during week-long exercises.
Originally started by Security Forces, Airfield Operations and Logistics Readiness members working in the Emergency Operations Center for the 8th Fighter Wing, Airmen participate in an exercise regimen that keeps them fit and alert during their 12-hour shifts.
"We all lose gym time during these exercises so we have to get creative," said Tech. Sgt. Vanessa Brown, 8th Security Forces NCO in-charge of physical security. "Doing exercises during my shift allows me to maintain my fitness while also prepping for my PT test," she added.
The Airmen started out focusing on arms the first day of the exercise doing 200 pushups. They also include a series of exercises for abs, including flutter kicks and crunches. They incorporate legs and a combination of exercises to work all three areas of the body throughout the exercise.
"We started out with two females and now we've even got a few male Airmen involved," said Capt. Megan Harencak, 8th Operations Group Airfield Operations Flight commander and EOC representative.
"It gives you something to look forward to, a little boost of energy to get you through these long shifts," said Harencak.
With the Air Force's fit-to-fight mentality, exercising during shifts not only increases physical fitness, but boosts morale during long hours.
