One of the most beneficial forms of self-care comes through movement of our bodies, and thankfully, military spouses have access to some amazing facilities to help us. Different forms of exercise have many benefits that are not related to weight loss or dieting, so let’s explore what you need to know about local fitness facilities to help them put their own health back in the forefront of their routines again.
On-base fitness facilities can make staying fit feel easier, even when military life feels busy, uncertain, or constantly changing. MWR fitness centers give military spouses a dependable place to work out with weight rooms, cardio machines, courts, and functional fitness equipment that support a simple, affordable routine.
Group fitness classes add structure and encouragement with yoga, Spin, Zumba, and other beginner-friendly options that make it easier to stay consistent. Parent fitness rooms reduce the childcare barrier and help you move with more confidence when family life is full. 24/7 gym access gives you the flexibility to fit exercise into real life, and this article will show you how to use these on-base resources for a smoother, lower-stress path to staying fit.
One of the most beneficial forms of self-care comes through movement of our bodies, and thankfully, military spouses have access to some amazing facilities to help us. Different forms of exercise have many benefits that are not related to weight loss or dieting, so let’s explore what you need to know about local fitness facilities to help them put their own health back in the forefront of their routines again.
Who Can Use the Fitness Facilities?
Who can use the fitness facilities? Although every installation has varying pandemic protocols and varying equipment, one thing remains: military dependents can use the facilities free of charge– including military spouses. Some gyms have a parent workout area that includes space for young children to play next to some basic weights and fitness equipment. Our gym here in Alaska offers a child watch program through the Armed Services YMCA so parents can exercise kid-free. Each location has different rules, times, regulations, etc., so be sure to find out the details of your local gym.
What is Available?
The fitness facilities I’ve seen all follow a general pattern of available space and equipment: Weight area, weight machines, cardio machines, group fitness, basketball/racquetball area, functional fitness area. These facilities are equipped with quality equipment to fit whatever kind of workout you prefer. Dependents can try a group class like Spin or Yoga in the group fitness room or workout alone for cardio or for weight lifting. Some facilities even have an on-demand style kiosk available to stream the exercise of choice.
When is the Best Time to Workout?
Some installations have restrictions around access times for dependents, so familiarize yourself with the expectations. In general, 2 hours before the workday, or 2 hours after the workday are going to be the busiest. It’s very common for service members to hit the gym before/after work, or have unit-based PT time during these windows, so be aware. Lunchtime can be hit or miss for crowds as well. Mid-morning, mid-afternoon, or after dinner are generally times that MilSpos won’t be competing for equipment or locker space.
Which Workout is Best?
Generally, you’ll find three main areas of exercise: strength training, flexibility, and cardiovascular training. Each area is beneficial when done safely and efficiently, and any variety is better than no movement at all. If you’re not sure where to start- decide what your goals are, then ask for help. Ask for an orientation, see if the facility has personal trainers they recommend, ask a workout buddy to join you, or find any number of online based workouts that you can try using all of the equipment available to you for free. If you’re wondering what kind of exercise if right for you, or you’re unfamiliar with the equipment, you must take the initiative to ask for help and learn. Try something new. Try something that you decide you hate. It’s okay to be learning, just don’t give up.
Why Should MilSpos Visit the Fitness Facilities?
Our service members are held to a physical fitness standard based in risk mitigation and mission readiness. We, as military spouses, are largely left to our devices to take charge of our health and fitness. Research shows that exercise is beneficial for our physical and mental health in multiple ways that are not related to dieting or creating a smaller body through weight loss. Many professionals in the health and wellness environment are shifting to non-scale victories as a measure of success. What is a non-scale victory (NSV)? An NSV can be something like riding farther on the bike than you’ve ever ridden, lifting a heavier weight than ever before, completing a group class for the first time, trying a new form of exercise, sleeping better, having more energy in the mornings, etc. These are all ways to measure progress of fitness that have nothing to do with weight, body size, or scales.
Whether you are exercising to get stronger muscles, to improve heart health, to chase endorphins, or to have social time with friends- your local fitness facility will have what you need to get started.
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