Weight Warriors offers prologue to new beginning

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Kentavist P. Brackin
  • 1st Special Operations Wing Public Affairs
HURLBURT FIELD, Fla. --  -- Several groups of men and women embarked on a journey to physically better themselves this New Year's using the Weight Warriors program at the Riptide Fitness Center on Hurlburt Field, Fla.

The 8-week program, which began on Jan. 18, is designed to promote healthy lifestyle habits through physical fitness and nutrition during weekly meetings, while integrating team camaraderie and fun.

"A lot of folks begin an exercise program, but find it difficult to commit on a consistent basis or find themselves at a plateau and not sure what to do next," said Karen Cataldo, the Riptide Fitness Center Manager of 1st Special Operations Force Support Squadron. "When people are held accountable, [by] their teammates, they're more likely to commit on a regular basis."

Prior to the start of Weight Warriors, participants were given a pre-assessment fitness test to help track their weight loss during the program. The assessment consists of a three-minute step test, a push-up and sit-up test, a measurement of body mass index and several other evaluations of physical fitness.

Weight Warriors also offers new opportunities for the participants to spice up their fitness programs. The participants will have the chance to attend classes and learn exercises that they may never have tried to include spinning, body sculpting and boot camp.

"When I originally joined that program I just wanted to see what is was like but it turned out to be one of the best classes I have ever been to." Dawna M. Webb, a Weight Warrior alumni for three consecutive years. "It's a wonderful program that promotes camaraderie by allowing you to work with others while talking with them about their own struggles with physical fitness. It's inspiring to know that there are other people there alongside you sharing in your struggle."

Awards given during the program are divided into individual and team-based prizes. In the first group, the top three individual "losers" of weight receive a cash prize at the end of the program. In the second group, participants work together in teams to collect points which qualify them for several prizes.

"I also like the fact that it's only 50 dollars to join the program because you definitely get that back and more," said Webb.

Points can also be accumulated by attending a variety of workout sessions, weekly meetings and special events. Past prizes given away during the program included jump ropes, workout DVDs, gym bags and a variety of fitness gadgets.

"It's important for people to understand that exercise can be fun - they just need to find the path that's right for them," Cataldo said. "It's my hope people will develop a strong base for establishing healthy habits for the rest of their lives."

For more information on Weight Warriors program, please visit myhurlburt.com or call 881-5121.