WHAT IS FITNESS? Published Aug. 5, 2008 By Maj. James Reeman 140 Wing Fitness Program Manager BUCKLEY AIR FORCE BASE, Colorado -- How do you define fitness? Is there a stronger variable that affects your work, your recreation, and your quality of life than your health? In a series of 140th Wing fitness newsletters, we will address serious topics that affect your overall health and fitness and also provide new and fun ways for you to improve both! Sadly, we see examples everyday of Airmen that suffer at work due to poor health; worse yet, think of all the co-workers that pass away from health-related ailments shortly after retirement. Simply put, your health and level of fitness are no accident - they are a choice; a decision that you make each time you put something in your mouth and every time you decide whether or not to exercise. My background as a professional in the fitness industry stems from 20 years as a competitive athlete and having a passionate pursuit of knowledge and application in fitness. It has been my experience that anyone can improve their level of fitness, no matter where they are in their own personal fitness journey. It all starts with a decision to improve! Improving your fitness doesn't have to be tedious or a drag. It doesn't have to happen all it once. I have competed in 12 week programs and even partaken in short-term fads, but realistically the best approach is to adopt long-term, healthy principles that you will follow for the rest of your life! As you improve your level of fitness, you will find that every aspect of your life improves as well. Why not make the decision to start improving today! In future 140 Wing fitness articles, you can look forward to detailed explanations of what exactly to eat and what to avoid! You will also learn why CROSSFIT has become the warrior workout of choice and how you can incorporate this philosophy into your daily routine. In the meantime, I look forward to your fitness-related questions at james.reeman@cobuck.ang.af.mil. In Health, Maj. James Reeman 140 Wing Fitness Program Manager