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Dover PTLs leading the fight to be fit

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Shen-Chia Chu
  • 436th AW Public Affairs
DOVER AIR FORCE BASE, Del. --  Team Dover has the chance to take part in becoming a key factor in improving physical fitness.

By becoming a Physical Training Leader, Dover Airmen have the opportunity to lead Airmen in the fight by being fit to meet expeditionary mission requirements.

"PTLs are responsible for leading squadron Physical Training in aerobic, anaerobic and stretching, as well as assessing annual physical fitness tests," said John Walters, 436th Aerospace Medicine Squadron Health and Wellness Center exercise physiologist, who teaches the PTL course. "It's a unique position to be a leader in fitness because Airmen look up to those who lead them in the fight to become fit."

The Air Force fitness program is focused on the fitness test, but also concerned about shaping Airmen into the culture of being healthier and physically active.

"Fitness testing is only one aspect of the responsibility a PTL has, along with the most challenging part, which is leading other Airmen," said Mr. Walters. "I tell my PTLs that they have to help their squadron by selling fitness so others understand the importance of getting fit and making better life styles for their health in the long run."

PTLs lead their squadrons' fitness in various manners, but their main purpose is to help Dover Airmen achieve Air Force fitness goals.

"I have a passion for motivating others through new and varied workout plans," said Staff Sgt. Kyle Moccia, 373rd Training Squadron Detachment 3 Mission Ready Airmen instructor and PTL.

"I believe it's very important to lead by example to build trust and camaraderie within the squadron," he said. "This preserves credibility of this fitness program."

Helping Airmen maintain and improve in their fitness standard is a motivating factor for another PTL.

"I want to set an example to help Airmen improve in fitness," said Staff Sgt. Marsha Moore, 436th Medical Operations Squadron physical therapy craftsman. "I like being creative in researching and providing various workout sessions for my squadron because it's fun and rewarding to see their improvements."

Not only are these leaders helpful, but they expressed that they love what they do.

"I love fitness and I want to be able to teach others something I love to do," said Senior Airman Dennis Weiss, 436th Force Support Squadron Fitness Center fitness specialist. "To become a PTL, you've got to like fitness or else you won't be an encouraging and motivating leader."

A 3rd Airlift Squadron loadmaster agreed.

"You have to be motivated to get others motivated and have the right attitude and mindset during the session," said Staff Sgt. James Ponziano. "I believe a good PTL will mirror their workouts to portray their personality - being a motivated and physically fit Airmen taking the opportunity in leading and mentoring their squadron.

"PTLs have this important and exciting opportunity because they not only impact their squadron, but this has a direct impact on our mission capabilities," he said.

Leaders in fitness have an important responsibility because their jobs affect one of Air Mobility Command's priorities - taking care of Airmen.

"In today's high operation-tempo in the Air Force, Airmen may feel stressed in their work centers," said Sergeant Moccia. "As leaders of fitness, PTLs become more of a personal trainer for their unit as they try to incorporate new and fresh ideas in accordance with the Air Force Instructions."

PTLs are knowledgeable in the area of fitness because they are trained to help Airmen of all ages exercise safely.

"It's dangerous for Airmen who don't exercise properly because it can be detrimental for them in the long run," said Sergeant Moccia. "So we offer the proper ways of stretching and exercise techniques,"

Everyone has a certain body type, weight, height and age that determines different fitness needs. PTLs try to accommodate all Airmen as they conduct their PT sessions.

"It's challenging to come up with a workout that will help reach the different fitness needs and goals," said Sergeant Ponziano. "But it's not too challenging, it's all about finding that balance so that the workout will work for all body types and ages."

Dover Airmen interested in becoming a PTL are appointed by the squadron commander to attend the PTL course, must have a score of 75 percent or higher, and must attend a cardiopulmonary resuscitation class.