The Runaway Jogger

  • Published
  • By Col. David E. Hafer, Jr.
  • 3rd Airlift Squadron commander
DOVER AIR FORCE BASE, Del. --  Let me start by setting the stage for you. I am sitting in front of my computer a sweaty mess, having just run two laps around the outer octagon at Randolph Air Force Base while here on temporary duty assignment. I am dripping sweat on the keyboard and gnawing on almonds which, I believe, are one of the main ingredients of pavement.

Now, you may ask, why just two laps for 2.6 miles and not three laps for 3.9 miles? The answer is simple: I didn't feel like doing three laps today.

Don't get me wrong, I love the sense of accomplishment of a run completed. However, I sure didn't spend all day wondering how awesome my 1630 run in 96 degree, hot and humid Texas weather would be, knowing all along that I wouldn't be nearly hydrated enough. I am happy to report that aching legs and almond breath aside, the run was another small test passed.

The good news is, if this edition of "Dave's Fitness Kick" pans out, I will get a 90 percent on the fitness test when I take it in August and will only have to take the test once a year for eternity.

So, there it is in black and white: I intend to score a 90 on the new Air Force Fitness Test. Come on, it's not like I just announced my grand plan to climb Mt. Everest.

I have heard it said, "Life gets in the way of good intentions." Life is made up of things like an upcoming mission, 12-hour duty days, the lawn, golf and lunch.

If you are one of the lucky ones and fitness is part of your everyday life, then a 90 on the fitness test is a no brainer.

For the rest of us, we need a plan. My plan on this TDY has meant more running, push ups and sit ups and less Mexican food.

A great chief once said, "In the Air Force being physically fit is a condition of employment." Let me take that statement a step further, being physically fit is a condition of my ability to serve my country.

In 2010, that statement is not only a fact, it is our new reality. My challenge to you is this: build a fitness plan and stick to it.

Your spouse is counting on you and your coworkers are counting on you! Here's the deal: I intend to serve the AF fitness gods one day a year and not two.

More importantly, I intend to serve my country every day of the year. Chief Evalle I can promise you this: tomorrow morning I will get up and I will get all three laps in!