McEntire Joint National Guard Base Introduces Group Fitness Program

The 169th Fighter Wing at McEntire Joint National Guard Base in South Carolina has introduced group fitness classes to promote physical readiness and community among its members.

Senior Airman Samantha Merck and Senior Airman Crystal Woodberry, both assigned to the 169th Force Support Squadron, lead the program, which includes Boot Camp on Tuesdays and Thursdays, Physical Fitness Readiness Assessment prep on Wednesdays, and a fitness dance class once a month.

The classes aim to build physical readiness while working toward individual goals, but also create a 'judge-free zone' where members can challenge themselves without feeling discouraged. Woodberry encourages participants to improve, meeting them physically and mentally, and building rapport through humor and motivation.

The program has attracted participation from leaders across the base, including Lt. Col. Rachel Phillips, commander of the 169th Force Support Squadron, and Chief Master Sgt. Kenneth Monroe, the squadron's senior enlisted leader. Merck believes that empowering members to become stronger is essential for military careers, which require service members to remain prepared both physically and mentally.