New PT testing requirements begin in July Published July 8, 2010 By Caitlin Fairchild Nellis Public Affairs NELLIS AIR FORCE BASE, Nev. -- On July 6, four airmen saw if they were up to challenge of the new and improved physical training test. Most of the test was familiar, with push-ups, sit-ups, body measuring and an aerobic challenge. However, there are some key changes that Airmen should take note of. The changes to the PT test were first announced in January in order to promote better fitness standards among Airmen. In addition to new scoring methods--now with minimum requirements in each category in addition to a cumulative pass or fail score-- the administration of the test has also changed. Civilian proctors, referred to as Fitness Assessment Cells, will now administer the test. Nellis Air Force Base has been allocated four FACs, including lead FAC, James Rowe, and Theresa Olunick. Two more FACs will be hired within the next two months. Unit physical training leaders will help to augment the cells. The tests will now be conducted in a single location at the fitness center. Prior to these changes, tests were held at a variety of locations. One of the most significant changes is the switch to twice-a-year testing, intended to promote more consistent levels of fitness. "We're trying to get people into a fitness lifestyle," said Master Sgt. Gabriel Martinez, Fitness Center Operations Manager of the 99th Force Support Squadron. "You have to be fit to fight." Sergeant Martinez and the FACs are aiming to dispel concerns and rumors about the twice-a-year testing. "We're working on squelching the rumors, " Mr. Rowe said. "Despite what some people think, we are not here to hurt the military, we want everyone to pass." A retired master sergeant himself, and with 20 years of experience in Air Force fitness and sports, Mr. Rowe has key recommendations for passing the test. "Know the minimum component scores so you know where you stand," he said. "Then practice your push-ups and sit-ups every night, the same way you brush your teeth." As a special incentive, those who pass the test in the excellent category, which requires a score of 90 or above, do not have to test a second time that year. "This will give members more motivation to get an excellent rating, as well as cut down on the numbers we have to test here," Mr. Rowe said. On the opposite end of the spectrum, there are resources available for those who have not passed the PT test, or wish to prepare more. Kent Terrillion, the fitness program manager of the Health and Wellness Center, said these programs specialize in a variety of areas, including injury prevention, strength training and nutrition. "Staying injury-free is really important with the new twice-a-year testing," Mr. Terrillion added. The changes in the PT test also aim to fix scheduling issues that have occurred in the past. As the summer continues, more and more Airmen will begin testing, with estimates at 120 people a day in July and August. One of the largest concerns for the fitness center is making sure the testing schedule is spread evenly throughout the month. "We don't want to bottleneck," Mr. Rowe said. "Tests should be scheduled throughout the entire month, throughout the entire year." Out of the four that tested July 6, one failed, which Sergeant Martinez said speaks to the concerns of the fitness staff. "We should be able to pick people up at anytime and they should be able to pass," Sergeant Martinez said. "It really is about a fitness lifestyle." Additionally, the small number that tested affirms the other key concern over the changes. "There are a large number of people to be assessed, and you can't wait until the last minute," warns Mr. Terrillion. "We have to keep the schedule flowing."
