ALI AL SALEM AIR BASE, Kuwait -- Airmen from the 386th Expeditionary Force Support Squadron recently launched a physical distancing 5K fun run and a weight loss competition for base personnel aimed at boosting morale while also adhering to health protection guidelines.
“We wanted to still offer some kind of fitness event even though COVID-19 [is] restricting us from gatherings,” said Master Sgt. Cory Farrell, 386th Expeditionary Force Support Squadron fitness center section chief. “We started brainstorming… and thought that it would be a good event to offer.”
The physical distancing 5K event required prospective participants to check in and register with fitness center staff, track their distance via an appropriate app, then verify their information with fitness center staff upon completion.
“I believe it impacts morale,” Farrell continued. “It gives the participants a goal and an outlet at the same time. It can provide stress relief and it gives the opportunity to participate for those that might not want to run in the group setting that our normal 5K’s offer. It also offers convenience as we give a week to complete the run letting members accomplish when it fits their busy schedule.”
The weight loss event began with initial sign-ups and weigh-ins with fitness center staff. The event requires weekly weigh-ins to track progress and will culminate after a 6-week period with the biggest losers slated to earn prizes for their hard work.
“This event has just begun, but we had a greater turn out than expected with 70+ participants signed up and excited to start this event,” said Senior Airman Bailey Hudson, 386th EFSS special events coordinator. “I am looking forward to seeing the transformations every participant will have.”
Hudson believes the event is a great way to adhere to the health protection guidelines by maintaining physical distancing.
“The most important reason is to make sure everyone stays healthy,” said Farrell. “Secondary is that we want our facilities to stay open and give everyone an outlet and stress relief.”
The 386th Air Expeditionary Wing is committed to accomplishing the mission while maintaining a healthy and ready posture. This is made possible by maintaining physical distance and adhering to all DoD issued guidance.
***Update 21 July 2020***
Results now included via photos.