137th SOW readies for new fitness standards

The 137th Special Operations Wing is stepping up unit-level training and guidance ahead of changes to the U.S. Air Force Physical Fitness Assessment that take effect July 1, aligning with the service’s broader Culture of Fitness push. Airmen have been taking part in workouts of the day and the Diamond Fitness Challenge as the wing emphasizes readiness.

“We’ve been providing guidance from the wing level to show our Airmen what they can do to get into shape and maintain readiness,” said Chief Master Sgt. Larry Mansell, 137th SOW command chief. “One of the commander’s priorities is strengthening the culture with fitness always, because you’ve got to be ready to fight tonight.”

Leaders are also directing Airmen to The Warfighter’s Fitness Playbook, a comprehensive resource that covers training plans, sleep, nutrition, stress management and overall well-being. The playbook includes a 12-week training plan adaptable to different fitness levels, along with goals, safety guidance and programming to help Airmen train effectively, recover smartly and fuel appropriately. An appendix offers workout-improvement tracks, health information and a visual exercise library.

“The amount of squadrons that are working out, the amount of Airmen in the gyms in the morning and afternoon, it’s getting baked into our culture of ‘what’s expected of me’,” Mansell added.

Fitness monitors within the wing are reinforcing the message that everyday physical activity supports mission readiness, regardless of career field.

“Being physically fit and prepared for the fight is essential to being mission-ready Airmen,” said a 137th SOW fitness monitor. “Even if your career field does not require you to be physically active daily, it is still advantageous for each of us to move our bodies, be stronger and healthier Airmen in our daily lives.”