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Voices heard: services opens parent’s exercise room

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Carissa Morgan
  • 36th Wing Public Affairs
Servicemembers now have a facility where they can work out while watching their children.
The 36th Services Squadron opened the parent's exercise room June at 8 a.m. The facility is located behind the Hot Spot.
At the town hall meeting held on May 8, 2007 at the base theater, a parent exercise room was among the many issues addressed. One of the suggestions base residents made was for an exercise facility where parents could exercise while watching their children.
Maj. Alex Gaines, the 36 SVS commander, provided some insight to the problem of parents trying to exercise and take care of their children.
"Research has shown us for years that a healthy, active lifestyle is important to the prevention of serious life threatening diseases, such as cardiovascular diseases," said Major Gaines. "However, even though this is common knowledge, for most of us our daily demands become so overwhelming we don't make time to exercise. This is one of the reasons that the parent's exercise room is such a great addition to the Andersen community. Families are now able to spend time together while concentrating on improving their lifestyles, and teaching their children the importance of a daily exercise routine. With the drastic growth of childhood obesity, it is a step in the right direction to allow young children to see their parents exercising and enjoying it."
"The need for the PER was a cry from the Team Andersen populace," said Major Gaines. "Ask and it is delivered."
The PER is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 12 a.m.; Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.; and Sundays from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m.
Parking is available in the lot across the street from the Hot Spot. To enter the PER, follow the sidewalk to the back of the building next to the entrance to the Lighthouse.
Currently, the restrooms are located in the bowling center.
Because the room is unsupervised, parents are encouraged to keep the area clean and safe for all users. This includes wiping down the cardio and weight machines with the bleach water solution that is provided, taking out what was brought in, and returning children's toys to their proper place after use.
If you have suggestions, or questions contact the Coral Reef Fitness Center at 366-6100.