Gym Rats: More than 100 earn their fitness stripes

By Jeremy Henderson, Army Flier Staff WriterDecember 18, 2014

Gym Rats: More than 100 earn their fitness stripes
Patrons participate in a six-week fitness Boot Camp earlier this year. Although Boot Camp sessions do not count toward Gym Rat progress, participation in Boot Camp provides unlimited access to numerous fitness classes offered at both physical fitness... (Photo Credit: U.S. Army) VIEW ORIGINAL

FORT RUCKER, Ala. (December 18, 2014) -- Fort Rucker's physical fitness facilities launched the Gym Rat program earlier this year to make fitness more engaging and rewarding with induction into an exclusive club.

Since its inception in February, about 600 patrons began their journey through 100 days of fitness and more than 100 have earned the privilege of wearing the Gym Rat T-shirt.

"The program has been tremendously successful," Lynn Avila, fitness specialist, said. "It gives patrons a goal to visualize and it motivates them to continue signing up for fitness classes offered on post.

"A well-rounded exercise regimen can provide numerous benefits in overall health and level of energy throughout the day," she added. "Working toward a Gym Rat T-shirt is also a journey to becoming a healthier and happier you."

The program requires patrons to complete 100 days of fitness activities through classes offered at the PFCs or individual workout sessions. However, patrons must remember to visit the front desk and ask a staff member to log each completed session. After 100 days is complete, the patron can claim their Gym Rat T-shirt.

"We have a wide variety of fitness classes available throughout the week," Avila said. "Each one is tailored toward various goals such as cardio, full body workout, or muscle group specifics. Each class accommodates individuals at all levels of physical fitness. Our instructors do a great job of helping each person reach their fitness goals by identifying and challenging their current level of fitness. Pushing through the 100 days of fitness with our instructors will help anyone improve their overall health."

Avila said that people don't have to complete the 100 days of fitness in a row, but can take their time with it over the course of a year, if needed.

Nearly all fitness programs offered at both PFCs qualify for a sign-off on the Gym Rat program, but Boot Camp is excluded from the program because it has an exclusive membership of its own for those that complete it.

Although there is no cost for participation in the Gym Rat program, fitness classes cost $3.50 per class or $30 for a month for unlimited classes.

Patrons interested in the Gym Rat program may sign up at the front desk of either PFC. Once 100 days in the gym is achieved, either by fitness classes or a personal workout regimen, patrons will be awarded the exclusive T-shirt. The shirts are on display in both PFCs or on the many Gym Rat achievers.

For more information on the Gym Rat program or available fitness classes, call 255-2296 or visit either post PFC.

Related Links:

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USAACE and Fort Rucker on Facebook

Fort Rucker, Ala.

U.S. Army Aviation Center of Excellence