The U.S. Army Recruitment Office in Lufkin, Texas, is offering a free-to-the-public weekly fitness program out of its recruitment center in Lufkin Mall. For those looking to get fit in the new year, the boot-camp-style fitness program is a great opportunity to participate in exercises modeled after basic training.
Sergeant First Class Jacob Sutherland told a local ABC affiliate, “Anybody can come to it. It can be someone who’s just trying to lose weight. It can be somebody who needs to lose weight to try and join the military, whether it’s the Army or another branch.”
“It’s the same exercises that they’re going to do during basic training or throughout their time in the Army,” Sutherland said. This includes an upper body circuit of push-ups, pull-ups and dips, as well as a two-mile run.
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According to the recruiters, the purpose of the program is to make workouts simple enough for participants to continue at home, whatever their age or fitness level. “We don’t care what level of fitness you’re at," said Staff Sergeant Brian Silva. "We want you to come here, have fun and learn how the Army does fitness.”
Along with strength and cardiovascular conditioning, the recruiters are hoping to cultivate an atmosphere of camaraderie. On some days, the program is more relaxed, with a focus on group frisbee, soccer or flag football. “We make it more fun, I guess you would say,” said Sutherland.
