ANDREWS AFB, Md. –
There is a unique camaraderie at the 6 a.m. fitness class at the West Fitness Center here.
At these early morning classes, Active Duty, retirees, spouses, and civilians gather for cycling and power pump classes, led by Senior Master Sgt. Robin St. Laurent, Air National Guard Readiness Center security superintendent and fitness instructor.
"I love to go to the 6 a.m. class and I don't have to get up this early-I'm retired," said Janice Brooks, a retiree who attends the class. "I've met some very nice people there and I feel that the group is truly, truly committed to working out-and I like them, too. When I tell my friends that I go at 6 a.m., they can't believe it."
The classes are convenient for those who work, as well. Tech. Sgt. Larry Perkins, 1 AS Squadron Aviation Resource Management NCOIC said he goes because it fits his schedule. "I have to be at work by 7:30 a.m. and I go to the early morning classes to avoid the crowds," said Sergeant Perkins. "I'm a morning person and, besides, I like the class."
Fitness instructor Sergeant St. Laurent is motivated-she must be-her alarm goes off every morning at 4 a.m. to make the 6 a.m. class. As a wife and mother to Ryan, 13, and Alexandra, 8, Sergeant St. Laurent gets up, packs lunches, makes sure the children are set for school, packs her gym bag and uniform, and grabs her cup of coffee before leaving for class.
Certified through the National Aerobics and Fitness Trainers Association in baseline primary group exercise, power cycling, and power pump, Sergeant St. Laurent became certified as a personal trainer three years ago. As the physical training leader for her organization, Sergeant St. Laurent sought to earn her certification. "I wanted to make sure that none of my folks got injured because on my inexperience," said Sergeant St. Laurent. "I don't want for anyone to get hurt on my watch."
As for what motivates Sergeant St. Laurent? "The results, absolutely the results-and that's everything from the physiological benefits to keeping the blood pressure low, decreasing fat and keep my stress level low. I consider working out preventative maintenance for my body. That's the way I look at it."
Classes are from 6 to 7 a.m., Monday to Friday at the West Fitness Center.
For more information on other classes at the WFC, call 301-981-7101.