Wolf Pack CrossFits Airmen's lives

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Roy Lynch
  • 8th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
KUNSAN AIR BASE, Republic of Korea --  If you enter the fitness center and notice Wolf Pack members grunting, screaming and running around, don't be alarmed -- it's the CrossFit members working out.

Even though CrossFit isn't endorsed by the Air Force, Wolf Pack members, as well as Airmen around the world, are using the CrossFit program.

CrossFit combines aerobic workouts with strength training to increase strength, flexibility, agility and endurance. Its purpose is to move large loads over long distances, quickly.

"This is what we do in the military," said Capt. Jason Leblanc, a visiting 7th Air Force member. "We do constantly varied movements executed to high intensity, which is what CrossFit is."

CrossFit is a nonprofit organization that anybody can join. First Lt. Kari Kundert, 8th Operations Group executive officer, has started the CrossFit program here. She starts beginners with a fitness assessment for accurate skill level, followed by a fundamental class for basic CrossFit movements and exercises.

"To be a member, all you have to do is show up," said Lieutenant Kundert.

Fundamental classes are every Sunday at 1 p.m. in the fitness center. Trainers are available to answer questions and teach the proper techniques of Cross Fit. A waiver must be signed before beginning the class.

"We try to develop the entire realm of fitness in one person," Lieutenant Kundert said.

After attending the fundamental class, CrossFit members meet at 6 a.m. and 6 p.m. throughout the week for workouts.

"I like CrossFit because every day is a different exercise," said Col. John Dolan, 8th Fighter Wing commander. "CrossFit doesn't become boring and is a great way to exercise your core muscles."

CrossFit is scaled to the individual -- the exercise will still be completed but at a different fitness level -- to maintain safety as well as success. Then the individual will build up to and can even surpass previous standards.

"CrossFit is tailored to your needs," said Colonel Dolan. "We have some great instructors on base, that can show you how to do it and do it right."

The CrossFit program gives quick and tangible results as long as the program schedule is followed and maintained.

"It's hard and takes a lot of effort, but if you stick with it the results are amazing and fast," said Lieutenant Kundert.

After completion of the fundamental class, CrossFit members can go to wolfpackcrossfit.com to print out workouts, receive additional information and assistance.

For more information on CrossFit, contact Lieutenant Kundert by e-mail at wolfpackcrossfit.com or kari.kundert@kunsan.af.mil.