Dyess Keeps it Moving with Fit Camp

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Robert Hicks
  • 7th Bomb Wing Public Affairs
DYESS AIR FORCE BASE, Texas --  More than 250 people participated in the most recent "Keep it Moving" Fit Camp here December 2009.

Fit Camp started with one camp at 4:45 a.m. two years ago that could only take 50 people. Each camp lasts six weeks. There are currently three camps, 4, 5 and 6 a.m.

"We all have different fitness levels in Fit Camp, from beginners to athletes," said Mrs. Dawson, fit camp instructor. "All of our workouts can be modified so that each person receives the most challenging workout depending upon his or her fitness level."

Participants not only receive strenuous workouts, they also receive a journal where they have to record what they eat, which is watched closely by Kris Dawson and Mica Jones. If they're eating something they're not suppose to its 25 push-ups.

"Getting into shape is for life, not an event," said Mrs. Jones, fit camp instructors. "One can't undo 20 years of bad behavior in a week. The simple reality of getting in shape is a bit of sweat, discomfort, inconvenience and tiredness, and the odd sore ankle or knee."

Eating right is a big part of the program.

"People are amazed by how good they feel when they exercise and finally eat healthy," Mrs. Dawson said.

November made two years of fit camp success.

"We just surpassed our Fit Camp two year anniversary with great milestones. We had the opportunity to share the lives with 2175 clients, seen over 1,213 pounds lost, shared a lot of sweat, a little bit of blood and plenty of tears, but most rewarding is the smiles," Mrs. Dawson said.

The Fit Camp participants had great things to say about the instructors as well as the program.

"Fit Camp has saved me this year from gaining the 20 to 30 pounds I usually gain every winter," said Mary McLeod, fit camp participant. "I have maintained my weight and have lost inches. I can run six miles. But before Fit Camp I couldn't do a sit-up or push-up. I can really feel the strength in by core from all the work outs. Fit Camp is a blessing to me and to everyone you teach/coach about eating clean and staying fit, thanks."

"I would like to give a special thank you to the 7th Bomb Wing, 7th Force Support Squadron, 7th Security Forces Squadron, the fitness center team, Amy Volyes-Brown, James and Janet Batiste, Rod Lyons, Diane Russell for their support in our efforts to make Dyess healthily," said Mrs. Dawson.