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Running for a healthy lifestyle

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Diana M. Giannetti
  • 20th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
SHAW AIR FORCE BASE, S.C. --  The 20th Force Support Squadron fitness center helped kick off the week prior to the national Great American Smokeout Day here, encouraging "kicking the habit" with the Great American Smokeout Turkey Trot 5K, Nov. 15.

Open to personnel across the base, the run provided an opportunity for fitness and healthy-lifestyle awareness. Fifty-two runners participated.

"We try to involve not just the Air Force, but the Army too, and get the spirit up and promote fitness at the same time," said Senior Airman Jeremy Charusch, 20th FSS fitness center specialist.

The Great American Smokeout, this year on Nov. 21, is a day the American Cancer Society asks people to commit to quit using tobacco for the day.

"It's a jumpstart to quit for the rest of your life," said Penny Hardin, 20th Aerospace Medicine Squadron Health Promotion flight program coordinator.

Even if you quit for a day, it is promoting a healthier lifestyle. The effects of smoking can be reversed, said Hardin.

"The Health and Wellness Center was at the race providing information on how to keep a healthy, tobacco free, lifestyle," said Hardin.

First and second place finishers for males and females were awarded a frozen 10-pound turkey. Funds for the prizes were donated by the Defense Commissary Agency and fitness center.

Finishing first in the male division with a time of 18:30 was Master Sgt. John Delaney, 20th Operation Support Squadron weather flight NCO in charge. Second place was Lt. Col. Ryan Krietsch, 9th Air Force standardization evaluations chief, finishing at 18:47.

The first place female was 2nd Lt. Micah Wessinger, 20th Logistics Readiness Squadron asset management officer in charge, finishing at 20:42. Second place went to Senior Airman Meryl King, 20th Component Maintenance Squadron avionics testation and components team member, at 21:32.

"We try to do as many 5Ks as we possibly can." said Charusch. "These events are a huge morale booster."

The HAWC promoted the Great American Smokeout not only with the race, but by visiting units across base and offering information at the Exchange.

Through the events held during the week of the Great American Smokeout, the HAWC was able to reach out to approximately 300 people, providing feedback and support for those who wish to quit smoking and start on a path to a healthy lifestyle, said Hardin.

The HAWC's staff are available throughout the year to give guidance and support for a variety of healthy lifestyle topics.

For more information about quitting tobacco, call the HAWC at (803) 895-1216 or 895-1217, or visit www.ucanquit2.org.