Camp MK fitness center being upgraded to ensure Soldier readiness

MIHAIL KOGALNICEANU AIR BASE, Romania -- Installation Management Command is renovating and modernizing the fitness facility here, while also adding a functional fitness center.

The main fitness center currently consists of various equipment, including free weights, squat racks and bench presses. Cardio machines run along the outside of the basketball court to ensure they do not interfere with ongoing games.

Camp MK's Morale, Welfare and Recreation team is taking lead for renovation efforts, with contractor assistance.

A facility that once served as a movie theater will be converted into the new functional fitness center, which will be used by U.S. forces and multinational service members participating in upcoming joint training exercises.

"We want to make it serviceable for units on the ground," said Lt. Col. Christopher Marquez, garrison commander of Camp MK and Novo Selo Training Area, Bulgaria. "This is really going to meet the needs of the rotational forces here."

Soldiers will also use this as an opportunity to prepare for a new service-wide fitness test that will be implemented in fiscal year 2020. "The facilities will have all things that are required for them to train for the Army Combat Fitness test," said Marquez.

"This is going to be instrumental for anyone preparing for the upcoming ACFT," said Sgt. 1st Class Edwin Mancini, platoon sergeant of 1st Platoon, Company C, 1st Battalion, 16th Infantry Regiment, 1st Armored Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division out of Fort Riley, Kansas.

The 1-16, which is deployed throughout eastern Europe in support of Atlantic Resolve, will be one of many units utilizing the facilities once it is complete.

Mancini, a former assistant gym instructor, believes the renovation will not only benefit his troops but also everyone who uses the center.

"This renovation is going to be a huge asset to anyone stationed here," he said.

As renovations continue, IMCOM will continue to provide the best services possible to all who live and work on Camp MK, which supports critical Black Sea operations, said Marquez.

IMCOM's mission is to manage base operations and provide services and programs to enhance community life, foster readiness, promote mental and physical fitness and deliver a quality living and working environment.