DVIDS – News – Fitness training reduces run time

RAMSTEIN AIR BASE, Germany – Members of the Kaiserslautern military community completed an eight-week running improvement program at Ramstein Air Base, Germany, February 28, 2024.

A total of 15 fitness coaches volunteered at the 86th Medical Group Health Promotion Office to help KMC members improve their 1.5-mile run times and reach their fitness goals over an eight-week period.

“We work with individuals of various skill levels to help them improve their running form and running times, prepare for fitness tests, or become more physically active.” said Catherine Cutler, 86th MDG Health Promotion Coordinator.

Last year, participants saw an average improvement of 40 seconds in their running time after completing the training program.

“We can now run longer distances without stopping to walk as often or at all,” said U.S. Air Force Chief of Staff. Ariana Ward, 86th Medical Squadron, orthopedic technician. “This training improved her endurance and cut her running time by one minute.”

Participants were divided into beginner, intermediate, and advanced groups, each with a coach based on their skill level.

“All workouts are laid out in such a way that you first do a dynamic warm-up and then get into a run, and take between 20 and 35 minutes, depending on your skill level,” Cutler said. “Then do an ab workout that lasts 5 to 10 minutes and a 5-minute cool-down.”

This program also welcomes those who are not currently active.

“There is also an element for members who have experienced injuries and want to get back to running,” Cutler said. “Walk to Run members are made up of people who have experienced a chronic injury or an ankle or knee sprain and want to return to running safely, and from the start I don’t run miles.”

Although the majority of participants were active duty military personnel, anyone with access to the base can train with volunteer coaches. A record 97 participants registered for his first training course in 2024.

“The new year is a good time for people to reflect on how their health and overall physical well-being has compared to the previous year,” Cutler said. “I think there are many people who want to start the new year off on a positive note.”

Regular physical activity improves many aspects of KMC members’ overall health and contributes to mission readiness.

“Mission readiness means being in the best possible shape physically, mentally, spiritually and emotionally,” Cutler said. “That includes eating healthy foods, getting enough sleep, and developing some sort of fitness routine.”

Volunteer coaches met with members three times a week for eight weeks to provide consistent training. One of their goals was to continue training outdoors as much as possible.

“There are many problems with seasonal winter depression,” Cutler says. “Having a way to be active outdoors while soaking up the sunshine can boost your mental health during this time.”

Volunteer coaches not only provide guidance to KMC members, but also participate in practices.

“We’re not asking people to do anything on their own. We want to do this with you,” Cutler said. “I really enjoy being part of this program and I think it makes a huge impact on the community in terms of helping people achieve their fitness goals.”

Current training sessions begin March 1st, and coaches are still accepting late registrations for those who wish to register.

“My advice to anyone struggling with their fitness goals is to find the plan that works best for you,” Ward said. “Don’t be afraid to try new things and push yourself to achieve your goals.”