DoD civilians, military, families can take part in programs at Fitness Center

  • Published
  • By Sarah Olaciregui
  • 66th Air Base Group Public Affairs
HANSCOM AIR FORCE BASE, Mass. --  A new director of fitness programs is on board at the Fitness Center and ready to develop more programs for military members and Department of Defense civilians.

Olivia Kuntz arrived at Hanscom two months ago and is busy working on fitness programs geared toward base personnel and their families.

"In addition to the many military fitness programs we have in place, I really like family fitness programs," she said. "I think it's important that families work out together."

Prior to coming to Hanscom, she worked with Morale, Welfare and Recreation programs for two years with the Army in Germany. Ms. Kuntz has a bachelor's degree is exercise physiology, is a certified personal trainer and has worked as a spin instructor.

To encourage family fitness, Ms. Kuntz is working on a variety of initiatives.

"We have already implemented a new class for spouses," she said. "The Total Body Conditioning class takes place each Tuesday from 9 to 10 in the morning. I want to start evening classes like 'bring your kid to zumba.' We also plan to partner with Youth Programs for the Battle Road Run in the spring."

The Fitness Center staff is currently taking input from customers on new events or classes they would like to see implemented. Patrons are urged to talk to the staff about events, classes or activities they would like to participate in.

Families may also participate in the free, regularly scheduled classes throughout the week. A complete listing is available at www.hanscomservices.com/FitnessandSportsCenter.asp.  

In addition, Ms. Kuntz and the Fitness Center staff realize that many people may not want to take a class and prefer to work out on their own, so alternatives are available.

Dependents of military and DoD civilians that are 16 years old or older may use the Fitness Center facilities at any time without supervision. Children under 16 years old must be accompanied by an adult. Contractors may also work out at the Fitness Center, but their families are not eligible.

For military of DoD civilians who may have children under the age of 16, they can still bring their children and work out in the Family Room. The room has an area where kids can play while the parent works out.

Options are also available for anyone who wants personal attention. Base personnel may sign up for a personal trainer for a fee. Other fee-based services include massage therapy, tennis instruction and boxing.

"Boxing is really starting to take off here," said Ms. Kuntz. "The instructor, Greg Leschishin, can help people with endurance, strength and agility. Some may choose to participate in boxing matches and others may work out with him just to get in shape."

For those who have never taken advantage of the Fitness Center facilities, a great time to start may be during the Health Expo on Feb. 23 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., suggests Jerry Turnbow, Fitness Center director.

"During the Health Expo, we will have the HAWC [Health and Wellness Center] here to answer any questions," he said. "People who stop by can pick up information from vendors and participate in demos for the climbing wall, circuit training, yoga, spin and more."

For those that can't make the Health Expo, gym orientations can be set up at anytime.

"Our staff can help people get on the right track," said Ms. Kuntz. "We can show them around the center and tell them about all the services we offer."

The Fitness Center is open Monday through Friday from 5 a.m. to 10 p.m., Saturday from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Sunday from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. The center will also be open on Presidents Day, Feb. 21 from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

For more information about the Fitness Center or to schedule an orientation, call 781-377-3639.