In deep for PT

  • Published
  • By 2nd Lt. Andrew Caulk
  • Team Eglin Public Affairs
EGLIN AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. --  The 96th Force Support Squadron created a deep-water exercise course Oct. 14 to offer exercise alternatives for members medically restricted from high-impact exercise.

Ben Gleason, Eglin's military fitness program liaison, witnessed a number of successes and failures while overseeing the fitness assessment cell.

"We had a number of airmen who would come into the FAC and fail an abdominal circumference-only test who were on no running, no walking, etc. profiles. In most cases, these folks were trying to diet but not having success and they weren't getting much out of unit PT," said Mr. Gleason. "Relying solely on calorie restriction is not an ideal answer for weight issues, and the practice is difficult to maintain long-term."

He realized Airmen needed something to help improve fitness and drew from his athletic experiences to create a new program.

"Through my athletic career, I experienced the benefits of non-traditional aquatic exercise and knew a zero-impact workout could be very challenging if done right," said Mr. Gleason.

Dr. Jim Dauber, Eglin's physical therapy flight commander, also supported the idea, said Mr. Gleason.

"We developed the course in principle as a medical referral-free fitness resource. Airman can self-identify minor physical issues such as nagging knee soreness and improve fitness while they are recovering," said Mr. Gleason.

The pilot group performed exercises like running, pushups and flutter kicks while using flotation devices in the pool's diving well three days a week.  

"The classes proved to be quite grueling for our participants. Our pilot group was really energized," said Mr. Gleason. "Guys who previously were in a lot of pain exercising were able to really push their limits and make some huge fitness gains. One class member reported losing 11 pounds."

FSS instructors will lead the permanent deep-water exercise program beginning Nov. 22. They will offer classes to military personnel mornings and at lunchtime several days a week, said Mr. Gleason.

Individuals interested in signing up for classes should contact their unit fitness program manager or the FAC.

"It's a good course that helped me with my foot injury," said participant Master Sgt. Mike Hill, 33rd Fighter Wing. "It's been really hard to do exercise. Being able to exercise in the pool really helped relieve pressure on my foot. I recommend it to any one with injuries preventing them from passing the PT test."