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Make PT mandatory

Top leaders are putting the burden back on airmen to get in shape for the new, tougher physical training test that goes into effect Jan. 1. And that same day, the service is doing away with mandatory PT that requires commanders to allow airmen at least 90 minutes three times a week on the clock to get fit.

With the start of the new year, commanders can decide for themselves whether to build exercise into the workday but will be encouraged to do so.

Given that the Air Force surgeon general found last year that 55 percent of airmen were overweight — and 12 percent were obese — tougher PT standards only make sense. However, it is counterintuitive to at the same time kill mandatory PT. The Air Force has been on a mission to create a culture of fitness for the past several years. The sight of airmen exercising during the workday is a valuable demonstration of commitment to that ethos.

Many commanders have legitimate concerns about their airmen being able to get their work done when 90 minutes is given to PT time. But commanders have an out — current instruction allows them to forgo providing PT time in order to meet mission.

Mandatory PT time with that exception ought to continue as policy. It would underscore the Air Force’s commitment to a culture of fitness while allowing commanders to opt out when necessary. Those commanders, however, shouldn’t simply waive mandatory PT as a matter of convenience. They should make every effort to provide it and scrutinize unit work procedures to ensure maximum efficiency. There just may be more time in the workday than many commanders realize.

And fit airmen are going to get more done in less time than those who are out of shape.

DISCUSS: PT requirements