Child/parent fitness room heads north

Courtesy of the 435th Services Squadron

The 435th Services Squadron recently opened a new child/parent fitness room in the Ramstein Northside Fitness Center.

“The child/parent fitness room was housed in the Southside Fitness Center Annex in the past,” said Jim Grubb, Northside Fitness Center Director. “With the Southside Fitness Annex becoming a keyless entry facility on Jan. 21, it is no longer feasible to leave (the child/parent fitness room) in the Annex. Additionally, customers requested weekend access and we can meet this demand at the Northside.”

The child/parent fitness room is one of the newest trends in Air Force fitness centers. Convenient nooks enhance the fitness center experience for parents, and allow young children to remain safe while parents exercise.

“It’s like having fitness equipment in your living room,” said Tim Cline, Ramstein Fitness Center’s director. “It’s not meant to be a full scale fitness center, but a comfortable area for parents wanting to get back to exercise or start new in 2007.”

Parents can choose from a variety of cardiovascular equipment, including treadmills, steppers, cross trainers, and exercise cycles. “It’s a wonderful convenience for parents to have,” said Staff Sgt. Jackie Rose of 435th Services. “Especially when the weather gets cold.” 

The child/parent fitness room is designed to give parents with children 6 months to 6 years old the opportunity to partake in several different types of aerobic exercise while monitoring their children responsibly and effectively.
Current Air Force Instruction prohibits children from frequenting cardiovascular and resistance training areas due to safety concerns.

“Safety is our number one priority,” said Mr. Cline. “We have rules in place to ensure the health and safety of the children while providing a convenient service for parents.”

Fitness Center Hours

The Ramstein Northside Fitness Center is open 5 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, and is closed for goal/family days and holidays. For details, call 480-8085.

Child/parent fitness room rules

1. Parents are responsible for the safety of their children at all times.
2. Parents must sign in prior to use at the child/parent fitness room entrance.
3. Infant children up to the age of six years are allowed in the play area.
4. Children must remain in the play area at all times unless the parent escorts them to the restroom.
5. One hour time limit for use of the cardio machines while others are waiting.
6. No food, drink, bottles, or personal play items allowed in the child play area to ensure sanitation and prevent younger children from choking on items brought in.