Space command takes youth fitness to new level

  • Published
  • By Tech. Sgt. Jennifer Thibault
  • Air Force Space Command Public Affairs
PETERSON AIR FORCE BASE, Colo. (AFPN) --  Airmen have been plugging away at the new fitness test for more than a year now, but they are not alone in the quest to increase their activity level on a regular basis.

Air Force Space Command children are increasing their fitness levels as well as part of an Air Force initiative, “Fitness in Time,” that began last summer through base youth programs.

AFSPC youth directors plan their activities to show increased fitness participation in the open recreation and programs that target children ages 5 to 18.

“The overall goal is to develop youths’ fitness, their positive use of leisure time, skills for physical coordination and enjoyment of active participation. We have seen a 40-percent increase in our base participation overall since we started,” said Susan Larsen, a community and family programs specialist with the command.

Activities run at least 20 minutes and are scheduled at least twice a week. They vary and are planned with themes or different objectives in mind. Some include:

-- Movement activities that get heart rates up and build stamina appropriate for age groups.

-- Creative competitions.

-- Adaptations of traditional sports or activities.

-- Fun quizzes of healthy concepts and choices.

All command base youth center staffs received training from two specialists in the commercial youth fitness arena. One focused on the importance of movement in the learning process during child development and also gave them practical methods for incorporating the increased activity within their existing programs. The second taught progressive skills and drills to use with children as they practice in various sports.

“Sports practices should be fun, interactive and geared for those just learning a sport, as well as those already adept,” Ms. Larsen said. “Most of our volunteer youth coaches also attended this training at the centers.”

“(The) workshop provided us with fun, innovative games and ideas using sports skills to teach fitness to (the children),” said Teresa Andrews, the youth director at Patrick Air Force Base, Fla. “The action-based activities are not only beneficial, but also fun. After all, playtime is what being a kid is all about.”

The program at Malmstrom AFB, Mont., has also reached out to military home-schooled children, challenging them to improve their physical capabilities progressively. They also take part in aerobic games and circuit training to satisfy the physical fitness portion of their day.

“I think the program is going great,” said Paul Means, youth programs center director at Malmstrom. “The kids are doing a great job … the cardiovascular and aerobic activities are tools that will last a lifetime.”

Activities at Vandenberg AFB, Calif., range from calisthenics to hip-hop dancing, which is a favorite for staff and children, said Karen Cook, base youth center director. Vandenberg also incorporated a computer program allowing children to track their activities.

“They enjoy seeing how much activity has added up, and if their numbers are low they get encouraged to step it up,” Ms. Cook said.

And although the program is more demanding, the staff at F.E. Warren AFB, Wyo., said they are finding it worth the effort.

“We’re seeing the results, and it pleases everybody,” said Karl Pfoor, youth center director at F.E. Warren. “It’s a neat program that’s going to do us a world of good.” (Courtesy of AFSPC News Service)