Fitness Center offers free personal training Published March 8, 2007 By Airman 1st Class Kali L. Gradishar 92nd ARW Public Affairs FAIRCHILD AIR FORCE BASE, Wash. -- Venturing into a workout routine for the first time can be tough, sometimes even intimidating. Conveniently, the Fitness Center here provides an opportunity for base personnel to make that first move and initiate a workout aimed at meeting realistic fitness goals. The program begins with a health and fitness assessment to evaluate the key components of an individual's health such as body fat, weight, cardiovascular endurance, muscular endurance and flexibility, said John Gahagan, Fitness Center athletic director. The next step involves a certified personal trainer determining what is needed for the individual to best accomplish weight loss, toning muscles, gaining muscle mass or whatever the goal may be. There are nine certified personal trainers at the Fitness Center who are available by appointment. The personal trainers meet with the individual first to do an assessment. Following the assessment, the individual will meet with the trainer five times within the next 30 days to evaluate the given program and its effectiveness. Follow-up consultations will be scheduled approximately twice a month thereafter to make necessary adjustments to the program. The trainers are available Monday through Friday by appointment during gym hours, and appointments are made based on the need of the individual. "I'd like for people to understand that it's not an all-day availability. It's generally during duty hours, depending on the person's need," said Mr. Gahagan, noting that it is also important for the individual to fully accomplish their mission and take care of other necessary responsibilities. There are also contracted personal trainers who are available for $35 per session. The contracted trainers are recommended to individuals who would like constant instruction during the workout rather than the occasional guidance the free program provides. Currently, there are about 40 people making use of the training program, said Mr. Gahagan. "My recommendation is to take advantage of the personal training," he said. With a certified staff trained in the basics of exercise, exercise prescription and program supervision, there are many benefits that can be obtained from this free service.