JOINT BASE ANDREWS, Md. -- As Joint Team Andrews members prepare for the New Year, they also continue to prepare for the new physical fitness training standards that the Air Force will be enforcing in July 2010.

Last month, Lt. Gen. Richard Y. Newton III, Air Force deputy chief of staff, announced that the new guidelines were established in part to improve member's readiness.

"Maintaining a high standard for fitness levels ensures that we maintain readiness to deploy," said Capt. Marietta Sanders, 316th Force Support Squadron sustainment services flight commander. "When we're down-range, regardless of the area of responsibility that we are sent to, it is vital to the mission that we are ready to perform under pressure."

At Joint Base Andrews, members of all ranks and services take their fitness seriously. Commanders seek to enforce mandatory PT schedules and exercise with their Airmen.

"There is a lot of local squadron-level support from commanders, first sergeants and superintendents for the new PT program," said Captain Sanders. "I think they really work hard to make sure that there is a schedule in place that works for the members of their unit so that they get ample time to maintain a good fitness level."

Not only is PT mandatory, it is often coordinated between offices, flights, squadrons and wings. The Jingle Bell 5K run held here Wednesday was a shining example of Joint Team Andrews members' dedication to pursuing fitness.

Another exercise resource for Joint Base Andrews members is the numerous classes held at the West Fitness Center.

"The programs we have in place to help Joint Team Andrews members improve their overall fitness levels include CrossFit and P90X classes," said Anthony Alcala, West Fitness Center director.

CrossFit and P90X classes are designed to provide a well-rounded workout using cardio and strength exercises.

"Participating in CrossFit and P90X classes on a regular basis will go a long way in helping members toward passing their PT tests," said Captain Sanders.

Also available at the West Fitness Center is the Fitness Improvement Program. The FIP targets servicemembers with a desire to improve their fitness level. The program offers one-on-one meetings or classes with fitness center staff members to produce an exercise regiment for servicemembers.

"The FIP is a great tool for members who have trouble passing their PT exams or who wish to lose weight and get into shape," Mr. Alcala said.

Fitness center staff members are dedicated to helping Joint Base Andrews members better their overall health.

"As always, our fitness center staff stands ready to help members on a one-on-one basis," said Captain Sanders.

In the future, the West Fitness Center staff plans to increase the frequency of popular classes to accommodate the demand of Joint Team Andrews members.

"The fitness center will be holding more CrossFit and P-90X classes because the demand for more is there," Mr. Alcala said.

As long as Joint Team Andrews members communicate the need for classes, there will be classes made available to them, he said.

"Feedback from members is instrumental in determining the need for different PT programs," Mr. Alcala said. "To determine that need, we conduct surveys, provide comment cards in the West Fitness Center and generally listen to the comments of instructors as well as members who come into the center."

In the year 2010, Joint Team Andrews members will continue on the road to achieving a higher fitness standard by utilizing the many resources and programs in place to encourage members to strive for excellence.

For more information on the Air Force's new PT standards, visit http://www.afpc.randolph.af.mil/affitnessprogram/index.asp.