Winter fitness assessment schedule announced

  • Published
  • By 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. The guidance is in accordance with AFI 36-2905.

"The winter weather in New England can be harsh," said Barbara Cook, 66th Force Support Squadron recreation specialist. "We want inclement weather to be the last thing on an Airman's mind when taking a fitness assessment."

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

The physical fitness assessment winter schedule begins Nov. 3. Assessments will take place Monday through Thursday at 10 a.m., 11:30 a.m., and 1:00 p.m. with six testing slots available per session. Testing will not be scheduled the last week of the month. No indoor track assessments are scheduled unless there is inclement weather as defined in the instruction.

Any questions or concerns about the policy can be directed to the Hanscom Fitness Assessment Cell Staff at 781-225-6634.

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 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, to include 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 

The winter fitness assessment schedule will end April 1, 2015.

For further information on the winter fitness testing policy, contact the Fitness Assessment Cell Staff at 781-225-6634.