Airman’s lifestyle change reaps benefits

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Sarah Clark
  • 51st Fighter Wing Public Affairs
With preparation for the new Air Force fitness standards underway, some servicemembers are already getting in shape.

A simple challenge from his leaders was all it took for one airman here to do just that, and lose 35 pounds.

Col. Jack Gundrum, 731st Air Mobility Squadron commander, made a New Year’s resolution when the wing commander here issued a challenge to all colonels to get fit.

The challenge began as a competition among Osan leaders.

“The challenge was originally (for the officers) to compete against me in Pacific Air Forces’ Fit to Win program and to promote unit fitness,” said Brig. Gen. William Holland, 51st Fighter Wing commander. “(The purpose of the challenge was) mainly to get them motivated while getting fit and having fun doing so.”

Although it was his motivation, Gundrum had other things in mind.

“I like to lead from the front,” he said. “It’s difficult to expect those who work for you to meet fitness standards without meeting them yourself.”

When Gundrum first got here, he was 10 pounds away from his maximum weight. He wanted to lose 30 pounds.

He did not do any special diets or take any pills. All he did was cut down on food portions and start an exercise routine, he said.

“It took me about two months to start shedding the weight,” he said. “It was kind of discouraging at first.”

Gundrum offered some advice to those who want to get fit.

“First, go over to the hospital and get checked out and (see where you are) physically,” he said. “Prepare yourself mentally. If you haven’t exercised for a while, you can probably go two or three days and feel pretty good, but then your muscles are going to protest. Start out slowly.”

While the actual exercise may not be a problem for some, finding the time to do it can be.

“You have to set your priorities,” he said. “You can go early in the morning or late at night. Just pick a time and stick with it.”

With the new upcoming fitness program for the Air Force, everyone needs to get fit. Gundrum’s advice on how to succeed is as simple as 1-2-3.

“Set a goal. Keep an eye on your vision. Maintain your vision and work through it,” he said.