FEP helps Sailors pass their PFA

Babb was named the station's command fitness leader in December 2008 - and it's a duty that he relishes.

"FEP is targeted at personnel who fail the Navy's bi-annual Physical Fitness Assessment (PFA), however, it's open to anyone who wants to change up to a healthier lifestyle. We teach exercise and nutrition, as well as promote the Ship Shape Weight Management program available through the Naval Hospital Jax Wellness Center in Building 867," explained Babb.

"Our FEP runs five days a week, but only three days a week is required. People notice what we're doing and ask about our group. In fact, we've had some civilians at the NAS Jax Fitness Center join our group."

Babb himself is a solid example physical fitness.

"I like keeping fit and eating healthy - so you might say I've got the ideal job. I want to inspire our Sailors and their families so they can learn to live healthier and feel better for it," said Babb. "Bottom line - today's Navy will no longer accept personnel who are out of standards. If you get three PFA failures in a four-year period - your career with the Navy is over.

Sailors enrolled in the Fitness Enhancement Program do lunges, suicide runs, block jumps and bear crawls during an intense morning workout. (Photo by MCSN Adam Thomas)

"The Navy wants top-quality personnel who are healthy and physically fit. And down the road, it may also help reduce medical costs for retirees. Another good thing about FEP is that participants can take what they learn back to their families."

Babb noted that the PFA is usually held in April and October - check the PRIMS Web site for schedules - but because of last year's air show, the next NAS Jax PFA takes place in May.

"We ensure all personnel get their Physical Health Assessment updated, and we monitor everybody who is required to get a physician's waiver for a medical condition. For instance, someone may have a wrist injury that precludes them from performing push ups," said Babb. "Our goal is to build a cohesive team of command fitness leaders (CFL) who embrace the total program - physical training, nutrition and weight control - so we no longer need an FEP."

Fitness Enhancement Program Sailors conduct cool-down stretches after a hearty morning workout. (Photo by MCSN Adam Thomas)

Until then, FEP participants work out from 7 a.m. - 9 a.m., five days a week. To keep things interesting, each day begins at a different location, such as south Perimeter Road, the fitness center or outside of the Rescue Swimmer School. They also do circuit training at the gym (cardiovascular workouts at a variety of exercise stations) every Wednesday. Babb's group even ran a recent base 5K in formation.

"A daily cardio workout and weight training can do wonders," said Babb. "It's great to see Sailors lose weight and gain energy. It's important to remember is that FEP is not about kicking people out of the Navy - it's about keeping them in."

(From left) FEP fitness coach SK1 Glen Decle of FISC Jacksonville records the weight of JSEC Bernard Cosalan of NAS Jax Brig. "It works for me -- I've shed 10 pounds in less than two months. I'm also eating smarter thanks to the nutrition classes," said Cosalan. (Photo by Clark Pierce)