Carry your own weight at the fitness center Published Nov. 14, 2014 By Staff Sgt. Samantha Krolikowski 92nd Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs FAIRCHILD AIR FORCE BASE, Wash. -- How many of you showed up to the fitness center, workout routine in hand, only to see the equipment you planned to use has an, "Out of Service," sign attached to it? Or, upon walking over to the next machine in your workout, notice the gracious person who used it before you left a large slimy puddle(s) of sweat on the handles or seat? The fitness center staff works hard to keep the facility and equipment clean and in good working order. Team Fairchild Airmen can help their efforts by wiping off the equipment when they are done using it, returning equipment to its proper location and informing the staff of any problems or issues they observe. By helping the fitness center with these few instructions, Airmen can assist in preventing equipment from breaking down. "The fitness center staff is responsible for maintaining the working order of the equipment," said Tech. Sgt. Troy Farley, 92nd Force Support Squadron fitness center NCO in charge. "Equipment breaks down naturally from frequent and repeated use. However, incorrect use of equipment and lack of training can contribute to equipment breakage." By using and cleaning equipment properly, Airmen can help save the Air Force money. A treadmill can cost anywhere from $7,000 to $10,000 and an exercise bike can cost from $3,000 to $5,000. If this were your own equipment, would you have the money to replace it? If someone is unsure how to use the equipment, the staff at the fitness center are able to give guidance and training. This helps reduce breakage and also prevents injuries. "Ask the fitness center staff for direction before exercising on an unfamiliar piece of equipment," Farley said. For more information on how to help keep equipment in working order contact the fitness center at (509) 247-5705.