Photo By Petty Officer 1st Class James Stenberg | Sailors at Naval Hospital Pensacola participate in exercises during a physical...... read more read more
PENSACOLA, Fla. – When Naval Hospital Pensacola’s first physical fitness assessment of the year was complete, NHP finished with a 98 percent pass rate. With a Navy average of around 92 percent per command, NHP has once again exceeded Navy standards.
The primary objective of the Navy’s physical readiness program is to establish Navy standards for maintaining optimal health, increase physical and mental stamina and to ensure both active duty and reserve personnel maintain a level of physical fitness required to support the Navy’s overall mission readiness.
The physical fitness assessment is broken down into two parts: the physical readiness test and the body composition assessment. The physical readiness test measures flexibility, muscular strength and endurance. Sailors must complete sit-ups, pushups and run 1.5 miles (or swim 500 yards) in a specific time period based on their age and sex.
“The PRT is how we measure a sailor’s ability to run [or swim] and do sit-ups and push-ups,” said Lt. Alejandra Vega, NHP’s command fitness leader. “It gives a snapshot of [a sailor’s] physical readiness.”
The body composition assessment, or "weigh in," involves height and weight screening. If sailors are over the weight limit allowed for their height, a body fat percentage will be calculated.
Among the reasons for NHP’s success is the dedication given to the program by its command fitness leader and her assistant command fitness leaders.
“For [ACFLs] to see the success they are having keeps them motivated,” said Vega. “They see what the fruits of their labor are producing, and it keeps them motivated to help each of their sailors.”
When asked what she thought was the most important thing that contributed to NHP’s success rate, Vega said, “I believe the main reason for our success is the top level support we get. I think that if commands want to be successful, junior personnel can’t feel like they are the only ones being held to a standard. They feel more motivated when they have directors and department heads showing up for physical training with them and showing that they care. At this command we have been pretty successful at that.”
While physical exercise is important, nutrition also plays a big role in keeping sailors healthy and in optimum condition.
“Nutrition impacts our energy level for exercise,” said Lt.j.g. Danielle Sterner, department head for the Nutrition Clinic, NHP. “Providing your body adequate fuel before and after exercise also helps improve performance and decreases fatigue.”
The NHP Nutrition Clinic is open to all active duty service members, as well as retirees and family members, but a consult or referral is required to be seen. Appointments can be scheduled by calling Central Appointments at 505-7171.
A strong and healthy mind and body go a long way towards maintaining readiness. Staying in good physical shape allows Sailors to better serve and protect our country.
| Date Taken: | 08.06.2013 |
| Date Posted: | 08.06.2013 10:32 |
| Story ID: | 111422 |
| Location: | AL, US |
| Web Views: | 131 |
| Downloads: | 2 |
This work, Excellence In exercise, by PO1 James Stenberg, identified by DVIDS, must comply with the restrictions shown on https://www.dvidshub.net/about/copyright.
No keywords found.
LEAVE A COMMENT