PT in the Woods lets kids, parents workout together

By Derek GeanApril 23, 2015

PT in the Woods lets kids, parents workout together
(Photo Credit: U.S. Army) VIEW ORIGINAL

Morning physical training got a kid-friendly makeover on Gerlach Field when 180 people stormed the field for an early morning "PT in the Woods" session April 15.

Members of the Fort Leonard Wood Youth Sports and Fitness Department and the Air Force 364th Training Squadron, Detachment 1, hosted the event in honor of the Month of the Military Child. Air Force Staff Sgt. Jesse Stokes, led an energized 30-minute aerobic workout for children and their parents.

Children and their parents take part in PT in the Woods April 15. Courtesy photo

"The purpose of 'PT in the Woods' is to allow youth of service members the opportunity to experience and participate in a military-led physical training session," said Jamal Verdell, Youth Sports and Fitness director. "This helps teach kids about fitness. It allows Youth Sports and Fitness staff an opportunity to take an event and focus strictly on teaching the five components of fitness -- cardiovascular endurance, muscle endurance, muscular strength, flexibility and body composition -- to our youth in a fun setting with their parents."

Parents also echoed the significance of their children being involved in physical activity.

"It's good to start fitness at a young age to create a habit, so kids don't feel forced as they get older. It benefits them in the long run and prevents health issues in the future," said Sgt. 1st Class Clifford Ross.

The next opportunity for military children to participate in the Youth Sports and Fitness program, will be during the upcoming T-Ball, Coach Assisted Machine Pitch, baseball and softball season.

Registration is open now at the Parent Central Services office and will close at 2:30 p.m. Friday.

For more information, call Verdell at 573.596.0131, ext. 62611.

(Editor's note: Jamal Verdell contributed to this story.)

Related Links:

Fort Leonard Wood GUIDON newspaper

Fort Leonard Wood website