Members shape up with new FitLinxx system

Betsy Allen
435th Services Squadron


***image1***FitLinxx, a U.S. Air Forces in Europe’s Combat Fitness initiative to help military members, dependents and civilians better track their workouts, has arrived in the KMC. The 435th Services Squadron fitness centers invite members to register for the new program.
This online system tracks exercise, weight, calories burned and more.
“Either enter your workouts manually from any computer with Internet access or use the Ramstein Northside Fitness Center’s cardio and weight machines hooked to FitLinxx. Your exercise will be sent directly to your account after a workout,” said Scott Bishaw, Sembach Fitness Center director.
This program allows users to enter and track fitness activities and earn points toward prizes.
“Visit the Web site as often as you like to chart your progress. It is an excellent means of motivation, because users can compare themselves to other people in the KMC or FitLinxx users worldwide,” said Mr. Bishaw.
Users select their own user ID that is displayed along with point totals, so personal information remains confidential.
Berenice Valenzuela, 435th SVS marketing assistant, recently registered with FitLinxx at the Ramstein Northside Fitness Center.
“FitLinxx will help me keep track of my progress and reach my fitness goals,” she said.
Before using FitLinxx related equipment, a staff member can assist people who are interested with proper equipment use.
“Exercising with this equipment is like having a training partner,” said Mr. Bishaw. The Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) display, on each machine, instructs users if motions are too fast, too slow or of improper range of motion.
Seven USAFE bases now use the online capabilities of the FitLinxx program, and Ramstein is the only test base for the “online” equipment. KMC members have the first opportunity to try this state-of-the-art technology.
To participate in the FitLinxx program, members can visit 435th SVS centers to complete a registration form and get all the program details and information. After registration, participants receive an e-mail from a fitness center staff member and can then activate their online account 24 hours later.
FitLinxx kiosks, located in the Ramstein Northside Fitness Center, allow members to log in upon arrival at the fitness center and first-time participants can receive staff assistance.
Registered participants can access a wealth of health and fitness information on Ramstein’s FitLinxx Web site http://www.fitlinxx.com.
From cycling tips to osteoporosis education, the Web site offers numerous articles and information useful to beginner through advanced exercisers.
For more information contact Ramstein, Sembach or Vogelweh fitness centers.