Fitness success: results begin with will, motivation Published Nov. 16, 2007 By Airman 1st Class Alex Martinez 90th Space Wing Public Affairs F. E. Warren AFB, Wyo. -- "Fit to Fight" has become the Air Force's way of telling Airmen to maintain sufficient fitness levels. However, having this as a requirement is not enough to encourage everyone to stay fit; they must have the will and motivation to do it themselves. There are many paths to take for finding the right fitness plan, but the hardest part may be learning the basic facts so people know what's right for them. "Everyone has different body types," said Allison Morrell, health and wellness center fitness program manager. "A program that works for one person may not work another. We are all at different levels." It's not realistic to believe someone can perform at their buddy's level if they join their fitness program, she said. The risk of injury is also increased for the less-fit individual. Finding the right program is the first step. The next is to be to adopt a healthy diet. "When people think healthy, the first thing they do is put themselves on a diet," Mrs. Morrell said. "In reality, drastic diets are uncomfortable and can lead to less physical activity." The Air Force's "Fit to Fight" program offers many resources for people of all fitness levels. The "Back to Basics Warrior Fitness Program" provides a basic fitness plan that includes a warm up, aerobics, muscular strength and endurance training, a cool down and stretching. Once a fitness plan is developed and healthy eating habits are established, the final step is to maintain them. "Fitness motivation is really hard for most people," Mrs. Morrell said. She said there are many factors that contribute to the level of motivation in fitness such as lack of time, fear of being judged, intimidation and fear of injuries. People who don't work out on a regular basis are more susceptible to injuries because they may not know proper stretching techniques or they may try someone else's fitness program.