Feature Search

Fitness center helps Airmen GET FIT

  • Published
  • By Airman Whitney Tucker
  • 36th Wing Public Affairs
ANDERSEN AIR FORCE BASE, Guam - --  (Editor's note: This article is the first in the "Get fit" series, outlining ways to reach New Year's resolutions to get in shape.)

 The time to usher in a new year has arrived once again and with it, renewed hopes for the possibilities of the coming months. One thing sure to rank high on everyone's to-do list is not only to make, but achieve New Year's resolutions.

Each year when the clock strikes 12 on Jan. 1, one of the most commonly made resolutions is to lose weight and get fit. But with thousands of articles on the Web on how to lose weight and keep it off, readers are sent on a wild-goose chase to find the truth among countless methods. The trouble is, each site swears to a different fat-blasting method than the one before.

This year, Team Andersen members can rest assured that among all the diet pills, work-out DVDs and questionable protein shakes, there is one sure-fire, time-tested method: hitting the gym and working up a good sweat.

"At the Coral Reef Fitness Center here, Airmen and their families have the opportunity to take advantage of a plethora of available classes, machines and athletic teams," said Tech. Sgt. Carrie Caudill, 36th Force Support Squadron, section chief. "The CRFC offers group exercise classes including Zumba, spin, kickboxing, Pilates, yoga, aqua aerobics, and a variety of sculpting and strength training classes to fit all your personal needs in a fun group setting free of charge," she continued.

For those seeking a one-on-one experience, trained professionals are on hand to assist them throughout their journey to physical fitness.

"If working out in a group setting is not your style, you can work with one of the personal trainers for a fee," Sergeant Caudill said. "We also have limited trained military members that can work with you to meet your fitness goals and provide equipment orientations upon request. These individuals will assist you with weight training, cardio and a multitude of personal fitness options."

In addition to improved health and self-esteem, shedding those last few pounds can also improve energy.

Chief Master Sgt. Margarita Overton, 36th Wing command chief, discovered this fact shortly after becoming a mother.

After coming home from work exhausted each day, Chief Overton would struggle to find the energy to complete daily tasks at home. It wasn't until after beginning a consistent work out that she found the extra, end of the day kick she was looking for.

"My take away is that even if you don't feel like it, just do it," Chief Overton said. "You'll find that you feel better and maybe even crave a work-out instead of dreading it."

The Chief also referenced energy as a way to relieve stress.

Often times, the effort to relieve stress can lead individuals to negative outlets such as over-eating and smoking. The Health and Wellness Center, located inside the gym, is a great resource for Team Andersen members seeking to kick their bad habits.

The HAWC has smoking cessation classes offering in-depth teaching on the most effective methods and aids to quit smoking. Additionally, nutritionists are available to provide guidance on how to effectively enhance health by being mindful of daily intake.

The CRFC and the HAWC make achieving New Year's resolutions a one-stop-shop. Despite the multitude of individual goals, the fitness center and HAWC staff are there to make resolutions a reality this year.