3-mile walk new option for fitness test Published Sept. 22, 2007 By Airman 1st Class Daryl Knee 90th Space Wing Public Affairs F.E. Warren AFB, Wyo. -- The primary aerobic test for the Air Force Fitness Evaluation is the 1.5-mile timed run with an alternate cycle ergometry tests for those who can not run. However, a recent update to the AFI 10-248 Aug. 22 replaces the one-mile walk with a three-mile timed walk. The 1-mile walk and cycle ergometry are heart-rate dependent, requiring the use of heart-rate monitors and costly equipment. Once the walk or cycle is completed, trained experts use the heart rate response along with other information to formulate individual fitness scores. "Any heart rates altered by medication would not provide an accurate fitness evaluation," said Deena Ellin, Air Force fitness program consultant and Air Force Space Command health promotion director. "This new three-mile walk allows us to capture the population who couldn't do the cardio portion of the fitness test due to medications." The walk will also help out military members who are recovering from injuries that prevent extreme physical exertion. "It's a great program for rehabilitating members," said Cindy Mulcahy, element chief at Warren Health and Wellness Center. "It's really going to help the people who want to do the fitness test but can't because of physical inabilities." One thing to keep in mind: The option to perform the walk is not up to the member. The decision is made by the unit commander based on the recommendations of the medical provider and fitness program manager. "The three-mile walk is the last option, when everything else is inapplicable," Ms. Ellin said. "You have to keep in mind that staying fit is one of the most important jobs we have, so the success of the three-mile walk depends on the determination of the member." The basic rules of the walk apply. At no point should the member start jogging. The walk should be completed as quickly as possible. If any pain or discomfort begins, stop walking immediately and assistance will be given. "Basically, this assessment is just a tool to give the members who can't perform the run or the heart-rate dependant tests an opportunity to show their physical fitness," Ms. Mulcahy said. "This is going to be a good thing."