Fitness centers strive to improve quality of life

Left, Donna Flynn, a fitness center trainer, assists Tech Sgt. Tomeika Washington, 81st Force Support Squadron, with using the seated leg press strengthening equipment at the Dragon Fitness Center Oct. 20, 2011, Keesler Air Force Base, Miss. The primary goal of Keesler’s fitness services is to assist all customers in improving their overall fitness level and quality of life. (U.S. Air Force photo by Kemberly Groue)

Fitness centers strive to improve quality of life

Airman 1st Class Jacob Burns, 335th Training Squadron, runs on a treadmill at the Dragon Fitness Center Oct. 20, 2011, Keesler Air Force Base, Miss. The primary goal of Keesler’s fitness services is to assist all customers in improving their overall fitness level and quality of life. (U.S. Air Force photo by Kemberly Groue)

Fitness centers strive to improve quality of life

Published Oct. 26, 2011
By Joel Van Nice
81st Training Wing Public Affairs

KEESLER AIR FORCE BASE, Miss. -- The primary goal of Keesler's fitness services is to assist all customers in improving their overall fitness level and quality of life.

Each month, the base's fitness program accommodates from 23,000 to 27,000 customers, according to William Jinske, director of fitness services.

Keesler has three fitness centers -- Blake, Dragon and Triangle. The centers were recently equipped with about $175,000 worth of new cardio and strength equipment.

Active-duty and retired military members and their families, along with civil service employees and contractors, may use base fitness equipment and facilities as well as take advantage of free organized fitness programs, equipment orientations, fitness assessments and personal exercise plans.

Certified personal trainers are available at each fitness centers. Their free services include, but aren't limited to, nutritional information and advice, fitness assessment, personal training sessions and composition of personal exercise plans. A fitness assessment includes a health history profile, body fat percent test, cardiovascular step test, push-up and sit-up test and a sit and reach test for flexibility.