LANGLEY AIR FORCE BASE, Va. –
Under the springtime sun, Airmen from the 1st Operations Support Squadron test their meddle in an intense combat fitness course, designed to provide a comprehensive, full-body workout.
The course combines cardio, strength training, core shaping and endurance across a variety of obstacles staged around a running trail or track. The workout goes above and beyond basic unit physical training, giving warfighters individual and team-based challenges, said Staff Sgt. Joseph Cain, who organizes the course.
Airmen work in pairs through the course, starting with a half-mile run. Teams start one minute apart to keep adequate spacing. After the run, the teams accomplish shoulder presses, followed by navigating a 30-foot zigzag balance beam while carrying two cans filled with 30 pounds of sand.
Wielding a mock M-16, participants then low crawl approximately 10 yards beneath sets of pipes. Upon completion, the teams work together to carry a waiting Airman 30 yards, followed by kettlebell swings, 250-pound tire flips and finishing with "over-unders," in which Airmen carry a full ammo can against their chest and weave through hurdles.
When the teams finish the circuit, they start over, running through the course three times in total. The course is modular and can be set up at virtually any open area. Also, obstacles can be modified, placed further apart or removed completely, adding the advantage of customization.
"It's so advantageous because anyone can do it," said Cain. "People who struggle with PT can use it to increase their endurance, challenging themselves to get through it, while more athletic Airmen can compete against one another to finish first, as the event is timed."
"Motivators" are staged at each station, providing encouragement to participants and ensuring their safety. The dynamic further builds cohesion and morale amongst units who use the course, said Cain.
"Everyone gets in and works together to get through it," he said.
The response from Airmen has been substantial, with the course earning high marks from participants and leadership alike, said Cain. Using feedback from the unit, Cain said the course is a work-in-progress, with new additions and improvements to come.
"Our leadership approves of the course and we've had several others units interested in running it," he added. "We would like to see this expand."
The 1 OSS started the course in April and plans to run it twice each month. Cain said Airmen interested in completing the course should contact him by e-mail at
joseph.cain@langley.af.mil.