News

Getting 'Fit to Fight' just became more convenient

  • Published
  • 14th Force Support Squadron
COLUMBUS AIR FORCE BASE, Miss. --  As part of an Air Force services transformation initiative, Columbus Air Force Base, Mississippi, is one of the next Air Force Fitness Centers to implement unmanned hours at its fitness center, making it accessible 24/7.

Prior to Columbus AFB opening their doors 24/7, test bases drew over 25,000 visits during the test phase of the unmanned hours. That many visits showed a definite need for unmanned access.

With the completion of the test phase and its positive results, the Columbus AFB Fitness Center is ready to unveil their facility to the 24/7 process.

"The purpose of the 24/7 movement is to provide for service members who work unconventional shifts, such as security forces and firefighters, and allow them to maintain mission readiness and to boost morale by providing access to the gym," said Tim Dill, 14th Force Support Squadron Fitness Center Assistant Manager.

Fitness center users must register to use the center during unmanned hours. Registration for the program started May 26 for authorized users of the fitness center who are 18 years and older. Users must have a valid government common access card in order to register. Dependents and others without a CAC will be issued a proximity card for entry.

On June 1, the facility will become accessible to all registered users.

"Emergency equipment such as an Automated External Defibrillator and first-aid kits will be readily available, as well as phones with emergency number lists and clear procedures for fire department access," said Steven Bocek, 14th FSS Fitness Center Director. "The facility will be monitored with a sophisticated surveillance system that will provide patrons a safe and secure way to get fit during hours which previously were unavailable. Additionally, the cameras will provide the staff and/or emergency personnel appropriate data in case of an incident."

When people come to register, they should expect to stay for at least a half hour to fill out a Statement of Understanding, which each eligible patron must sign. Then a facility orientation will be given explaining emergency procedures.

Fitness Staff look forward to providing this opportunity to Team BLAZE in an effort to support the Wing Mission to "Produce Pilots, Advance Airmen, and Feed the Fight."