HITT prepares females for PFT season

Photo By Sgt. Grace L. Waladkewics | Dana Nichols, a Marine Corps Community Services fitness specialist and High Intensity Tactical Training instructor, demonstrates a proper assisted pull-up during a circuit workout at the HITT Center aboard Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point Nov. 21. Every Thursday service women from the air station gather at the HITT Center for an hour of physical training in preparation for the next year’s physical fitness test. While proposed changes to female fitness standards in the Marine Corps are currently on hold, it is essential for females to take part in this type of training, said Nichols.  

MARINE CORPS AIR STATION CHERRY POINT, NC, UNITED STATES

11.21.2013

Story by Pfc. Grace L. Waladkewics 

II Marine Expeditionary Force   

MARINE CORPS AIR STATION CHERRY POINT, N.C. - Every Thursday service women from Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point gather at the High Intensity Tactical Training Center for an hour of physical training in preparation for the next year’s physical fitness test.

While proposed changes to female fitness standards in the Marine Corps are currently on hold, it is essential for females to take part in this type of training to help them improve their physical fitness and combat readiness, said Dana Nichols, a fitness specialist and HITT instructor with Marine Corps Community Services.

HITT classes help enhance fitness levels and optimize combat readiness and resilience.

MCCS designed the female-only class after the Marine Corps began exploring a switch from the flexed arm hang to pull-ups for female Marines and Sailors during the annual PFT.

“This class is to help female Marines get stronger for pull-ups, lose fat and run faster,” said Nichols.

During the training, participants complete an exercise circuit focusing on endurance and strength. The circuit includes pull-ups, ropes, kettle bells, box jumps and a variety of lower body exercises.

“It is great to see women coming out in groups to work out on their lunch break,” said Nichols. “I love to see them encourage each other to work harder.”

Classes like HITT give Marines a chance to build camaraderie while also building their physical fitness abilities, said 2nd Lt. Kia Logan, a communications officer with Marine Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Squadron 2.

“I think it’s awesome that this class is offered for females,” said Logan. “The high-tempo circuit workout is a fun and effective way to get you in shape.”

The class helps students to push themselves past their limits and give them a fast workout.

“I believe it is important to stay involved and hold your fellow Marines accountable, not only during PFT or CFT season, but all year, in all aspects,” said Logan.

• Date Taken: 11.21.2013
• Date Posted: 11.27.2013 15:39
• Story ID: 117505
• Location: MARINE CORPS AIR STATION CHERRY POINT, NC, US