Changes made to physical fitness training program Published Aug. 6, 2013 By Airman 1st Class Timothy Young 99th Air Base Wing Public Affairs NELLIS AIR FORCE BASE, Nev. -- Changes have been made to both the Air Force Fitness Assessment and the physical training leader certification process. Not only are Airmen now responsible for scheduling their own physical fitness tests, but PTLs are required to complete continuous developmental courses throughout the year in order to maintain their certifications. Fitness Assessment Changes The Unit Fitness Program Manager no longer registers Airmen for their annual or biannual PFT. Each Airman is going to be responsible for scheduling their own PFT as a requirement of the new fitness assessment system brought about by the Air Force Network migration. According to Tech. Sgt. Andrade, Noe 99th Force Support Squadron fitness center program manager. Noe said UFPMs will send step-by-step instructions on how to electronically register for a PFT to Airmen when it's time for them to test. In order to register, Airmen are required to use their Common Access Card to access the link provided by their UFPM, Noe said. Once on the homepage the member must follow the instructions to register for their physical fitness tests. Noe said the instructions will also explain how to fill out and print off scorecards and the questionnaire which Airmen are required to bring to their test. Additionally, Airmen will be responsible to courtesy copy their UFPM when they register, Noe said. Anyone unable to access the link must contact their system administrator to work on a solution or contact the Air Force Knowledge Now help desk at (937) 656-2356. PLT Changes Another change to the PT program is the extended PTL certification process. "PTLs need to achieve four continuing education units throughout their certification year in order to remain certified," said Brittney Hunsaker, 99th Aerospace Medicine Squadron health and fitness specialist. "The CEUs will provide additional training that will give these PTLs even more info and knowledge on the ever-evolving fitness and nutrition trends." UFPMs are responsible for signing their PTLs up for courses. "PTLs accept the responsibility of creating and leading safe and effective workouts for their unit or squadron," Hunsaker said. "We believe that in order for PTLs to lead sound and safe fitness programs for all fitness levels, they should stay [well-informed] of evolving knowledge, skills and programs in the fitness field." The CEUs will consist of courses on subjects such as injury prevention, performance nutrition, high intensity interval training, athletic conditioning and exercise modifications classes. "We hope that PTLs will apply the training we give them and this will in turn lead to safer workouts," Hunsaker said. "It's all about injury prevention and creating beneficial programs for these Airmen - and PTLs can play a huge role in their lives." For more information about the PTL's continuous education, contact the Health and Wellness Center at 653-3375.
