Service member and civilian physical fitness key to workplace health

SCOTT AIR FORCE BASE, Ill. - Even without the extra motivation of on-the-job physical demands and group training opportunities, service members at U.S. Transportation Command stay competitive with their counterparts when it comes to physical fitness. And civilians at TRANSCOM have plenty of opportunity to maintain an active lifestyle right outside their workspace on base.

The TRANSCOM Navy element is wrapping up its semi-annual physical readiness test this week, and like other services’ requirements, members must meet push-up, curl-up (pull-up, in the Marine Corps) and cardio-respiratory standards.

“I’ve experienced first-hand the importance of being physically fit in a combat environment,” said Hospital Corpsman Petty Officer 1^st Class Aaron Scott, TRANSCOM Navy element fitness leader.  “Sometimes it’s the difference between life and death. The ability to push your body and endure muscle fatigue is vital to accomplishing the mission.”

“There are approximately 100 sailors at USTRANSCOM and 99 percent of them have consistently maintained high physical readiness standards,” reported Intelligence Specialist Chief Petty Officer Jason Kamphorst, Navy element command fitness leader.  “Within the top five percent was (former TRANSCOM Deputy Commander and soon to be Defense Logistics Agency Director) Vice Adm. Harnitchek, who consistently took the lead in physical readiness.”

Air Force Lt. Col. Kimberly Graham, senior nurse/patient safety, USTRANSCOM Command Surgeon, said people who are physically fit are less tired, sick less often, generally feel better and are more productive. “I know the Air Force is emphasizing preventative health care,” she added. “Corporations are doing this as well, but in our environment, where people are deploying quickly, maintaining fitness is especially important.”

While the purpose of maintaining physical fitness for the force out in the field is obvious, it’s equally important for those in support roles. Air Force Gen. William M. Fraser, commander, U.S. Transportation Command, shared his belief that balance is important between many aspects of life — including physical health — during his first Commander’s Call.

The base supports physical fitness among civilian staff through several offerings. Government employees can participate in the Civilian Physical Fitness Program where, with supervisor permission and doctor referral, they can exercise during duty hours for a maximum of three hours per week.

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