JOINT BASE LANGLEY-EUSTIS, Va. –
Soldiers gathered outside of Anderson Field House at Fort Eustis for the unveiling of their new obstacle course known as the Battle Rig, Dec. 12.
The new obstacle course, built by the Alpha Warrior Company, works to strengthen muscles used in day-to-day work environments and gives groups the opportunity to condition together in a unique way.
“We are pushing our Soldiers to include more functional fitness in their everyday workout plans and thankfully, the Alpha Warrior Battle Rig promotes that development,” said Kellie Jorgensen, 633rd Force Support Squadron Fort Eustis fitness center director. “It helps by engaging in those functional movement patterns used more in your daily life.”
The various obstacles throughout the rig help strengthen muscles from the core to the upper body, while also focusing on increasing grip strength. The rig encourages individuals to practice safe techniques in the workplace, such as proper lifting habits.
To encourage Soldiers and Airmen to practice on the rig, the fitness center staff hosted a small competition during the unveiling, timing each competitor and providing tips and tricks to improve their time.
Showcasing how to properly use the system, Air Force Alpha Warrior Final Battle fitness competition winners, U.S. Air Force 2nd Lt. Nicole Mitchell and Airman 1st Class Trevor Puerile, kicked off the unveiling by climbing through each obstacle.
“I think it’s awesome to be able to show other people techniques, gain more competition and get more people involved,” said Puerile. “For people interested in competing, you just have to train and keep training. Endurance, rock climbing and cross-fit (training) will all help you. It’s all about practicing and gaining technique.”
With the rig erected outside of the fitness center, Joint Base Langley-Eustis Department of Defense ID card holders are able to utilize the obstacle whenever they need to, said Jorgensen.
Jorgensen hopes to host regional competitions on the rig in the future, similar to the one Langley’s Community Commons hosted in October.
“The rig provides a different way to challenge and motivate yourself,” said Jorgensen. “It’s a new, fun, innovative way to practice and accomplish your fitness goals.”
For more information, call Anderson Field House at 878-2328.