FORT WAINWRIGHT, Alaska - The Family Activity Motivational Exercise program consists of a regular schedule of group fitness classes free of charge at Fort Wainwright's Melaven Physical Fitness Center. In addition to providing a variety of classes from spinning to strength training, boot camp and even treadmill trekking, which merges a typical treadmill workout with the advantages of an instructor-led, group class, FAME also offers the benefit of Child, Youth and School Services on-site child care during fitness classes for a minimal fee.
Currently, the classes meet Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 9 to 10:30 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. to noon.
Because child care is available at the gym, mothers of small children are able to participate on a regular basis, said Susette Ryan, FAME group fitness instructor and wife of Lt. Col. Bill Ryan, 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division, executive officer. The program schedule mirrors local school calendars, only offering classes when school is in session during the school calendar year.
Ryan said FAME provides a lot more for participants than just a workout. "This is more than just a fitness program, it's a wellness program," she said.
The wellness component of the program is not only the physical benefit from exercise, Ryan said, but also the social and emotional benefit from being with other spouses in a comfortable environment.
"It's great. It's an escape and something I look forward to," said Melanie Hallum, wife of Staff Sgt. Brad Hallum, Headquarters and Headquarters Company, Brigade Troops Battalion, 1-25th SBCT. "You get some time away from the kids and get yourself a good workout at the same time. There's so much variety instead of just (staying) at home working out on or your treadmill or your elliptical or whatever you do. There's so much different stuff that you can do whether it's spin, or step or strength (training)."
Hallum, who is in her third year of FAME classes, brings two of her four children to the gym with her and said the on-site child care makes a big difference to her. "The kids get to have fun, too," she said. "They get a little change of scenery in the back. Sometimes they ride bikes and now they have someone new back there and they do crafts and (other activities)."
Ryan said she tailors the classes to every level of fitness so anyone from a beginner to a fitness guru will feel comfortable in a FAME class. "Everyone in the class is very accepting and kind to new people who are just starting out," she said. "When we do things, we always give alternate exercises (or modifications). Everyone gets a good workout, no matter what level they are."
Additionally, participants do not have to have children to attend. The classes are open to everyone. "I don't have kids, but I come to the classes," said Brandie Froberg, wife of Spc. Steven Froberg, 5th Squadron, 1st Cavalry Regiment, 1-25th SBCT. "Coming to the classes gets you around other ladies. I was afraid at first that I couldn't come because I don't have kids, but they (welcomed me in)."
The on-site child care is also available to those who do not want to take the FAME classes, but choose to use exercise equipment, swim or other individual workout options at Melaven. They just have to remain at the gym during the class time period.
"This is a really wonderful way for stay-at-home moms to get out of the house," Ryan said. "They don't even have to take the classes. They can just come and walk on a treadmill or even sit and read a book. It's just a break for them."
For more information about the FAME program, call 353-1994.
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