Winter fitness assessment procedures

  • Published
  • By Barbara Cook
  • 66th Force Support Squadron
HANSCOM AIR FORCE BASE, Mass. --  The 66th Force Support Squadron has issued guidance on how fitness assessments will be conducted during winter weather conditions at Hanscom, in accordance with AFI 36-2905.

During winter months, the weather can be harsh in New England and inclement weather should be the last thing on an Airman's mind when taking a fitness assessment, FSS officials say.

Appropriate weather agencies will be consulted to determine what environmental conditions exist before determining if assessments should remain outside or be conducted indoors on the Fitness and Sports Center track.

The new physical fitness assessment winter schedule begins Nov. 5. Assessments will take place Monday through Thursday at 10 and 11 a.m. as well as at noon, with six testing slots available per session. No indoor track assessments will be conducted unless there is inclement weather as defined per the instruction. The winter fitness assessment schedule will end April 1, 2013.

Winter Environmental conditions for testing outside:

- Wind Speed - Max wind allowed is less than or equal to 15 mph sustained, or less than or equal to 20 mph gusting.
- Cold Stress - Air temperature must be greater than or equal to 20 degrees Fahrenheit with wind less than or equal to 15 mph sustained, less than or equal to 20 mph gusting.
- Snow - No snow accumulation on the running surface.
- Ice - No ice on the running surface that cannot be easily observed and avoided.
- Water - No standing water that a large group cannot easily avoid on the running surface.
- Mud - No mud on the running surface that cannot be easily avoided.
- Rain - No significant rain. If assessing on a wet day, rain, mist or heavy dew, the temperature must be greater than 34 degrees Fahrenheit, including wind chill.
- Hail - No hail forecasted or reported within 25 miles.

For any questions or concerns about the new policy, contact the Hanscom Fitness Assessment Cell Staff at 781-225-6634.