Active-duty and civilian runners from units around the base took turns circling the track for Friday's 10-hour squadron run at RAF Lakenheath, ultimately won by the 48th Security Forces Squadron. (Charlie Reed / S&S)
Active-duty and civilian runners from units around the base took turns circling the track for Friday's 10-hour squadron run at RAF Lakenheath, ultimately won by the 48th Security Forces Squadron. (Charlie Reed / S&S)
The run was one of dozens of events scheduled at U.S. bases across England throughout May for National Fitness Month. (Charlie Reed / S&S)
If there were ever a month to get out and do something, May is it.
Not only has the nice weather begun giving way to the prospect of outdoor activities, but it’s also National Fitness Month. And base gyms and wellness centers across England are holding everything from stroller walks to dodgeball tournaments.
RAF Lakenheath kicked off the month on Friday with a 10-hour squadron run. Units had to keep at least one representative running the track at all times. The 48th Security Forces Squadron took home the commander’s trophy by the end of the grueling event.
If you’re looking for something a little less hardcore at Lakenheath, sign up for Fitness Clue. Based on the popular board game, it combines your exercise routine with a little mystery to mix things up. Each workout gets you a “cryptic clue” in the who-done-it.
“It’s just an incentive program with a little twist,” said Lorraine Botwright, fitness program director. “We thought people might enjoy something a little different.”
And for those with kids, don’t worry. There are plenty of family-friendly activities.
“We’re offering a little bit of everything,” said Thomas Kerr, fitness center director at RAF Alconbury. “But a lot of emphasis is being put on family events.”
Scheduled for the weekends, the activities range from a stroller walk to a family volley tournament.
Other fitness month fun is geared for active-duty members.
A push-up contest at RAF Mildenhall is expected to attract airmen looking to show off their physical training prowess.
“People are very competitive,” said Airman 1st Class Lafayette Workman, who is coordinating the contest for the 100th Services Squadron.
“People want to one-up each other even during PT tests,” he said. “I think we’ll get a lot of people coming out for that.”
The Health and Wellness Centers at each of the bases are also supporting fitness month with several events such as healthy grilling classes and seminars on how to buy the right running shoe.
So check out your nearest gym to find out what fitness month activity suits your fancy and get moving.
