Last modified Wed., August 16, 2006 - 04:07 PM
Originally created Thursday, August 17, 2006

Hospital staff puts 'healthy foot forward' to set example of physical readiness

By Loren Barnes, Naval Hospital Public Affairs

YNCS Juanita Watson leads the crunches as the sun rises over the Naval Hospital Jacksonville campus. Photos by HM1 Michael Morgan

Naval Hospital Jack-sonville staff must ''put their healthy foot forward'' is why Capt. Raquel Bono said physical readiness is a must for her staff. For some time now Bono has set the example for staff members who are working out in the hospital's Physical Training (PT) program. She not only encourages her staff, both active duty and civilians, to participate but also shows up herself to set the pace.

Bono said it is important that the hospital staff ''put their money where their mouth is'' in setting a good physical fitness example for beneficiaries. It is crucial to both our missions she said. Being fit is not only important to the hospital staff deployment readiness but also to reminding hospital beneficiaries; active duty, family members and retirees alike; that keeping physically fit can extend the longevity and quality of life.

Bono is excited about her command participating in the Aug. 24-27 MWR Sports Challenge aboard NAS Jacksonville and has confidence that the ongoing PT training will give her staff an edge in the events. She said, ''We've got to get ourselves ready for the Sports Challenge. I expect that we'll have a very strong showing.''

The hospital's PT program, which falls under the Wellness Center's direction, starts at 6 a.m. Friday mornings in the hospital's outpatient parking lot. While turnout generally had averaged 40 people, with Bono's encouragement, more than 160 people recently turned out for the Friday morning PT.

HM2 Emanuel Essienete who helps run the program said the program is basically open to anyone. ''We don't turn anyone away,'' he said. ''We're just out there to have fun and get in shape.''

Hospital Physical Training Program participants start their run down Mustin Road.

Essienete said the program is designed to help active duty members meet the Physical Readiness Test (PRT) requirements. The regimen begins with stretching and aerobic exercises which require less breathing control, activities such as sit-ups, jumping jax, etc. This is followed by anaerobic exercises involving more strength training. These

exercises; such as push-ups, crunches, etc.; require more breath control Essienete explained. Then it's off for a 2.2 mile jog, down Mustin Road.

As the hospital seeks to encourage civilians to participate, the program coordinators plan to incorporate a less demanding regimen for people with physical limitations. This program will start out with lighter calisthenics and a walking program.

For anyone who needs a little more motivation and guidance on adopting a healthy lifestyle the Wellness Center offers their Shipshape Sailors program. This eight-week weight management program covers a wide range of topics dealing with healthy eating habits and tips for exercising more effectively. Call 542-5296 for information.