Physical Training Leaders keep Airmen fit to fight

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Shelton Sherrill
  • 403rd Wing Public Affairs
KEESLER AIR FORCE BASE, Miss. --  The room filled with Airmen awaiting the challenge yet to come. Some tapped their feet as they waited for their test, while others surrounded the charts to see what their requirements were to pass.

"Good morning. You're about to begin the Air Force Fitness Assessment," said Senior Master Sgt. Jason Browne, a deputy fire chief who was assigned to the 403rd Force Support Squadron here after the inactivation of the 403rd Civil Engineer Squadron Sept. 30, 2015.

Dedicated to fitness, the Fitness Assessment Cell augmentees, or Physical Training Leaders in category B, are tasked with guiding Airmen through their fitness assessment, ensuring all participates are "fit to fight" and up to date on their fitness assessment requirements. Per AFI 36-2905, there are two types of PTLs, categories A and B. PTL-Bs are FAC augmentees who only administer the fitness assessment. PTL-As are the only people authorized to conduct physical training.

To start the assessment, PTL-Bs sign Airmen in, ensure their score cards are completed and assign color-coded numbers to track them through their assessment, said Senior Airman Saniqua Hines, 403rd Force Support Squadron services journeyman.

After taking height and waist measurements, the PTL-Bs prep Airmen on fitness components they are required to complete for their test: push-ups, crunches and the 1.5-mile run. The PTL-Bs instruct Airmen on how to properly perform crunches and push-ups, and during the 1.5-mile run they stand on the side of the track to motivate testers and update them on their run times.

Most PTLs volunteer for this position in addition to their regular job responsibilities to help realize the commander's goal for Citizen Airmen to be fit to fight.

Browne has been a PTL here since October 2015.  Fulfilling the need within the wing as a leader in fitness is the main reason he became a PTL.

Secondly, he enjoys having the opportunity to interact with a large portion of the 403rd Wing's members through fitness.

Not only do PTLs focus on helping others, they also commit to making sure they not only meet, but exceed the fitness standards. When Browne isn't helping other Airmen stay up-to-date on their fitness standards, he is committed to staying in shape himself.  He makes sure to exercise 5 to 6 days a week. In addition, Browne maintains a healthy diet to manage his weight.

"It's important for me to still score a 90 or above. I feel if you're going to be a PTL ... you should excel at what you do," said Browne.

According to AFI 36-2905, PTLs, both A and B, are appointed in writing by their commanders. The PTLs receive specialized training and must be available for a minimum of one year from the time of appointment. Members interested in becoming a PTL should talk to their supervisors.