Changes Recommended to AF Fitness Program

Air Force health officials have recommended seven changes to the fitness program. First, the Air Force is adding height and weight back into the standard to accommodate Airmen unable to obtain the minimum abdominal circumference but who are still at a normal weight for their height. A body mass index of less than 25, based upon height and weight, is considered a normal or healthy weight, and Airmen within that range will receive full points on the body composition component of the test. Other changes: move the waist-circumference measurement to a controlled area for individuals rated poor or marginal; lengthen run times for tests conducted at higher elevations; retest Airmen who are rated “marginal” at 90 days instead of 180 days; promote nutrition as an important aspect of education and intervention; emphasize regular physical training rather than test results; and reinforce commanders’ accountability.