New policy on attire implemented at fitness center Published April 28, 2011 By Sarah Olaciregui 66th Air Base Group Public Affairs HANSCOM AIR FORCE BASE, Mass. -- Officials have issued a new operating instruction for fitness attire at the Fitness and Sports Center. The OI establishes policies, procedures and general guidance regarding the procedures for hand carrying fitness footwear into the center. The instruction applies to all personnel who use the fitness center and is in accordance with AFI 34-266. Patrons are instructed to hand carry a pair of athletic shoes into the facility during inclement weather. "Hand carrying athletic shoes helps preserve the courts and group exercise room floors and equipment," said Jerry Turnbow, Fitness and Sports Center director. "Salt in winter months, sand and dirt can destroy the cardio equipment; pulley systems, tracks and upholstery." In addition, the OI instructs fitness center patrons to wear appropriate athletic attire and athletic shoes in all activity and equipment areas. "Court shoes with non-marking soles must be worn on all court and group exercise room floors," the instruction states. "Military uniforms, or part thereof, casual slacks/shorts and jeans are considered non-exercise attire and are not to be worn. Plastic/rubber suits are not authorized in any fitness facility, to include outdoor running tracks and fields." Customers not wearing proper attire will be asked to change into appropriate exercise clothing or leave the facility. "Appropriate clothing must be worn to maintain a proper image in a military and family fitness facility," the OI states. "Inappropriate language or graphics are prohibited." The complete operating instruction, called FSSOI 34-266-07, is posted at the fitness center. For further information, call 781-377-3639.