HANSCOM AIR FORCE BASE, Mass. -- Military members can improve their running performance and prepare for upcoming fitness assessments through a free run club hosted by the 66th Air Base Group Operational Support Team.
The club meets Tuesdays and Thursdays from 8 to 8:45 a.m. at the outdoor track and is open to all active duty, Guard or Reserve members.
“The most commonly failed component is the run,” said Stephen Strosser, OST’s strength and conditioning specialist. “It's a very perishable skill. You need to practice, and if you're not doing it somewhat regularly, you're going to get slower over time.”
OST launched the program to help participants improve the 2-mile run, a component of the physical fitness assessment.
Participants of all fitness levels are encouraged to attend. Workouts are tailored to all abilities, allowing beginners and experienced runners to train together.
“My job is to design the session so it's equally as challenging for the fastest runner as it is for the slowest runner,” said Strosser. “I'll also work with individuals one-on-one to address areas that could be improved.”
To gradually build endurance, Strosser recommends alternating between running and walking intervals. Beginners can start by running the straightaways of the track and walking the curves before progressively increasing their distance.
According to Strosser, consistency is the key to becoming a better runner.
“You get a little better each time, and your body becomes accustomed to it,” he said. “So please come out and join us.”
For more information, contact Strosser at Stephen.A.Strosser.Civ@Health.mil.