Variety is the spice of physical exercise

Photo By Sgt. Shanika Futrell | Staff Sgt. Joseph Helsel, an electro magnetic spectrum manager with Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 159th Combat Aviation Brigade, punches the heavy bag during a physical training session, Nov. 15, in Clarksville, Tenn. The HHC, 159th CAB leadership allows soldiers to come up with suggestions for PT to keep the morale up within the formation. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Shanika L. Futrell, 159th Combat Aviation Brigade Public Affairs/RELEASED)  

CLARKSVILLE, TN, UNITED STATES

11.14.2012

Story by Sgt. Shanika Futrell 

159th Combat Aviation Brigade Public Affairs

CLARKESVILLE, Tenn. - Army physical training is important and to add variety to the program, leadership encourages soldiers to submit suggestions to do something different weekly.

"If you guys have suggestions for PT, send your plan up to me, I'll review it and if it's approved we will do it," said Capt. Nadia Romero, the commander of Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 159th Combat Aviation Brigade.

The unit promotes initiative by providing opportunities enabling junior soldiers to develop their leadership skills and feel empowered, and encouraging the senior leadership to bring up morale within their sections.

The 159th CAB Aviation Operations sergeant major, Sgt. Maj. John Sheffa-Wallace was the influence for soldiers going to the Title Boxing Club for PT, Nov. 14.

"I went to the Title Boxing Club because someone invited me to try it out," said Sheffa-Wallace. "Upon going, I realized that the workout I endured was unlike any I have endured before during a PT session. I then spoke to the first sergeant and made a suggestion that it may be something the entire company could partake in to get a good workout."

Having a variety of PT sessions throughout the week produces happier and healthier Soldiers. The HHC, 159th CAB, has conducted four-mile runs, ruck marches, Zumba, family PT, step aerobics, gym workouts, and more.

"I think breaking up the monotony with PT helps Soldiers to strengthen muscles they do not normally use," said Sgt. Opeoluwa Adegoke-Taylor, an Information Systems Operator with HHC, 159th CAB. "It also helps to build morale, and that is important within any working environment."

Before the soldiers started the workout, they were smiling from ear-to-ear. About 20 minutes later, Soldiers were bent over or lying on the floor, hoping to catch a breath during their one-minute water breaks which happened every five minutes.

"Whew, this is too much at one time," yelled a male soldier. "I'm not giving up, though. Don't worry," he added.

Left and right hooks landed on the punching bag, but many Soldiers' upper bodies tired quickly, so they threw in a few knees and kicks to take the edge off.

"I did not expect this work out to be so challenging," said Staff Sgt. Darryl Duverglas, the chaplain assistant with HHC, 159th CAB. "I feel good though, this was a good opportunity to get away from the everyday routine, and I definitely feel other formations should consider doing exercises and functions outside of their weekly schedules. The end result will be better for morale, with a result of more fit Soldiers."

Soldiers say it is important to have fun when working out.

"I know a thing or two about working out, and if there was no fun in it, I definitely would not consider doing it again or recommend it to someone else," said Spc. Jenda Moun, a geospatial engineer with HHC, 159th CAB. "This experience has been awesome; I am always looking for new and exciting ways to work out to keep in shape and staying healthy."
Media

• Date Taken: 11.14.2012
• Date Posted: 11.16.2012 18:20
• Story ID: 97967
• Location: CLARKSVILLE, TN, US