KIRTLAND AIR FORCE BASE, New Mexico -- Several Kirtland Air Force Base leaders gathered at the East Side Fitness Center to celebrate the gym’s new renovations on Aug. 30.
The ribbon-cutting ceremony took place to honor all of the hard work that went into upgrading the facility to better meet the needs of those who use it.
A 2012 survey revealed that many customers wanted a larger weight room area, increased ventilation, and a decrease in maintenance issues. While changes have been underway for the past five years, the new design was completed in only two months.
“We increased our weight room capability by 4,000 square feet, added additional equipment, a tactical fitness area and an Alpha Warrior Rig for Air Force Physical Training,” said Steve Bowlin, Kirtland Air Force Base fitness center director.
The renovations were made to accommodate customers’ wants and needs. When discussing what changes were going to be made, it was important to find a way to also fully incorporate the four pillars of comprehensive Airmen fitness.
“The Air Force Fitness Program recently began a movement to embody a more functional style of fitness,” Bowlin said. “We now have multistation devices that enhance functional fitness training in individuals and teams.”
The new devices are not only easy to use for Airmen who are looking to take their training to the next level, they’re also meant to be a little bit of fun as well.
“It’s amazing,” said Senior Airman Neal John Sanchez, Security Forces Squadron response force leader. “It’s like a playground that just got new toys.”
While making fitness fun is a priority, safety is always the top concern for all Airmen. Minimizing injury during workouts is a common goal for everyone.
“It's very important to make sure that we have the proper space for customer safety and comfort,” Bowlin said. “We want to provide different types of equipment to satisfy all of our customers.”
The fitness center is open from 5 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Friday, and 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday.