Joint Total Force Scott staying ‘Fit to Fight’ for the winter Published Jan. 25, 2008 By Airman 1st Class Andrew Davis 375th Airlift Wing Public Affairs SCOTT AIR FORCE BASE, Ill. -- It's 7 a.m., cold and blustery outside, and the James Sports Center parking lot is packed with cars. Servicemembers are rushing in to start their physical training. Winter months can sometimes make it more challenging for servicemembers to keep up physical fitness. The Air Force Physical Training Program, known as the "Fit to Fight" program, helps keep Airmen in top shape and prepares them to fight the war on terrorism when forward deployed. "You see Airmen in the mountains of Afghanistan and Iraq (with) the vests they have to wear to protect themselves and the weapons they have to carry," said Master Sgt. Amy Whaley, Air Mobility Command. "It's important to be in great physical shape not only to pass their PT test but to execute the mission." One of the many challenges that Physical Training Leaders face during the winter months is keeping their training programs fresh and interesting to their squadron. "I like to mix it up for our squadron -- some days we do circuit training and then cardio, others we just have a fun day and play a sport such as Walleyball or basketball," said Staff Sgt. Noelia Sarinas, 375th Medical Support Squadron PTL. Leaders at all levels recognize the importance of a strong PT program and emphasize that a strong program keeps Airmen in the best shape possible to accomplish any mission. In addition, motivation could be the deciding factor between success and failure. "They're pumped, they're motivated and they feel good about themselves even during the winter months," said Col. Al Hunt, 375th AW commander. "They're in great shape to do the mission, and I attribute that to everyone's dedication to stay 'fit to fight.'"