Dental hygienist places 1st in TAFE fitness competition

Photo By Senior Airman Nigel Sandridge | Staff Sgt. Alysia Macedo’s dedication to personal fitness earned her success at the recent Fitness Helsinki competition in Finland, March 2015. Macedo fit healthy eating, along with regular workouts, into a busy military schedule. (Courtesy photo)  

BRANDON, SFK, UNITED KINGDOM

04.22.2015

Story by Senior Airman Nigel Sandridge 

48th Fighter Wing

ROYAL AIR FORCE LAKENHEATH, England - An Airman from the 48th Dental Squadron brings a whole new meaning to the phrase "RUfit?" by winning the Team Armed Forces Europe fitness competition.

Staff Sgt. Alysia Macedo, 48th DS dental hygienist, championed the TAFE, an all armed forces-affiliated team in which military members participate in body-building shows.

"My boyfriend was deploying, and I was trying to figure out what to do with all the free time I was going to have," Macedo said. "Some friends were involved in shows, and I got interested."

Macedo placed first in the model sports bikini and second in the overall Fitness Helsinki competition in Finland, March 21, proving that it's possible to fit workouts in with a busy military schedule.

"I have a consistent schedule Monday to Friday, so that helps," Macedo said. "But since I see patients all day, all my extra duties have to be completed after work. Keep in mind that an hour at the gym isn't a lot. If there's will, there is a way! I always prepare my meals on Sunday so I don't have to worry about it the rest of the week, which saves time."

Squeezing meals and additional workouts in between patients, Macedo's determination keeps her not only fit for competition, but physically ready for any challenges in her military career.

"It helps to be ready to deploy without notice and physically fit to do your job at any time," Macedo said. "Maintaining a strong, healthy body allows you to perform faster, better and with fewer sick days."

Making physical fitness the cornerstone in a successful Air Force career, Macedo charges forward with optimism.

"You just have to set a goal and go after it," Macedo said. "Make good choices and have no regrets. Every time I choose healthy over unhealthy, I feel better." Macedo said. "Keep at it and, over time, you'll see results. Think positive! Don't be negative about the things you think you're missing out on. Be proud of what you are doing!"

While maintaining her own personal fitness, Macedo also uses her knowledge to help fellow Airmen in the dental squadron.

"Staff Sgt. Macedo is a fitness inspiration to the Airmen around her," said Senior Master Sgt. Katie Rosenbeck, 48th DS superintendent. "She has been a great source of information and encouragement to help others achieve their fitness and weight goals. Alysia's positive attitude and relentless dedication continually motivates others to seek her out for advice and support."

With the recent victory in Finland, Macedo doesn't plan to stop there in her goal to do more than just maintain the Air Force standard.

"I want more shows under my belt and to get my name out there," Macedo said. "I'm going to Puerto Rico for a National Physique Committee show and competing in July for International Federation of Bodybuilding and Fitness card. I hope to one day make fitness a career and inspire others."

• Date Taken: 04.22.2015
• Date Posted: 04.23.2015 09:21
• Story ID: 160953
• Location: BRANDON, SFK, GB