Mock testing prepares Keeselr for new physical finess criteria

Published Nov. 5, 2009
By Susan Griggs
Keesler News editor

KEESLER AFB, Miss -- In January, the Air Force's new physical fitness testing criteria takes effect, requiring Airmen to meet minimum requirements in each category or fail the test.

Last month, the 81st Training Wing did mock testing on all personnel within the 75-84.99 range, including those on profile, as a realistic approach to the new fitness standard.

Units paired up with sister squadrons, and exchanged physical training leaders to evaluate testing. The intent was to prevent a possible spike in failures due to strict standards and to give individuals time to train and become familiar with the new requirements.

Mock testing for the wing was directed by Master Sgts. James Messer, first sergeant for wing staff agencies, and Gerald Cross, first sergeant for the 81st Force Support Squadron on behalf of the 81st Mission Support Group.

The 81st Training Group's representative was Staff Sgt. Birch Rypka, 332nd Training Squadron and the 81st Medical Group's point of contact was Master Sgt. Cathy Berry, 81st Inpatient Operations Squadron.

Final results are reported to Sergeants Messer and Cross on Friday, and Sergeant Messer expects the mock failure rate to exceed 30 percent.

"It's all about prevention vs. reaction," Sergeant Messer pointed out. "The mock test doesn't count, so let's work together and help each other along. As a first sergeant, I can't prevent the 2 a.m. phone call, but I can help members of my unit change their lifestyle through education and training."

Sergeant Messer said the mock testing has served an important purpose for many members.

"We've had several success stories," he explained. "We've actually had members saying, 'Wow -- thank you! I didn't realize, but now I know.' Others have a more accurate picture of their fitness level with time to train.

"Now individuals are aware of their fitness level -- the accountability is owned by the member, where it needs to stay," he continued. "If we tackle this together through unit and individual physical training, health and wellness support and lifestyle changes, we'll be a better fighting force. If one person out of the targeted population benefits, I'll consider the mock testing a success."

Mock testing prepares Keesler for new physical fitness criteria