SUBASE Sailors Participate in Spring PRT

GROTON, Conn. (NNS) -- Sailors across Naval Submarine Base New London (SUBASE) completed the Physical Readiness Test May 1 through 10.

Twice a year Sailors across the Navy are required to participate in a Physical Fitness Assessment (PFA), which is used for evaluation, advancement, perform to serve (PTS) and quarterly selection board input.

The PFA consists of two portions; First Sailors weigh-in to ensure they meet proper weight standards set by the Department of the Navy. If a Sailor is overweight, they must complete a Body Composition Assessment (BCA). During BCAs males have their neck and waist measured, while female Sailors have their neck waist and hips measured. These measurements determine a Sailors body fat percentage, with a maximum of 22 percent for males and 33 percent for females under 40 years old. For those over 40 the max goes up one percent.

The second part of the PFA is the Physical Readiness Test (PRT), during which Sailors perform curlups, pushups, and a cardio portion to determine their overall physical ability. The 1.5-mile run or 450 meter/500 yard swim are the preferred methods for PRT, however commands may authorize Sailors to use machine trainers for the test.

"If Sailors are going to utilize the pool or one of the machines as an alternative to running they need to practice that cardio event," said Boatswain's Mate 1st Class Shane Murdock, SUBASE assistant command fitness leader. "If you walk into the PRT unprepared you are setting yourself up for failure."

Chief Master-at-Arms David Farnsworth, SUBASE command fitness leader, stressed that Sailors need to prepare for the PRT and maintain proper hydration.

"Hydration is paramount for peak performance," said Farnsworth. Showing up at the PFA dehydrated is a recipe for injury. Secondary to hydration is flexibility. Proper warm-up and stretching helps to prevent soft tissue injuries."

Although many Sailors utilized the dirt track near the SUBASE ballfields or the indoor track at the Morton Hall gymnasium for this PRT cycle, a new safer track is being installed near the main gate.

"The new track and infield will be a huge asset for completing the PFA," said Farnsworth. "The synthetic infield will provide a soft surface for the curl-ups/push-ups and the quarter mile running track is perfect for monitoring the cardio portion."

Estimated to be completed this summer and be available for PFA Cycle 2, 2012, the new track and infield will be located between the main gate and the current track. The infield will be covered in a material called Spinturf, a form of synthetic turf that is softer and safer than Astroturf. The track will be rubberized with painted lanes, in a 400 meter oval. This track, which is modeled after the one at the U.S. Naval Academy, is designed to be superior to the current uneven dirt track.

Farnsworth recommends Sailors stationed at SUBASE take advantage of the resources the base offers its Sailors. Shore commands tend to have more opportunities for fitness than ships and submarines.

"The opportunities to live a lifestyle of fitness are much greater at a shore command," said Farnsworth, citing better food choice and availability. "It is essential for all ranks to embrace a lifestyle of fitness that encourages proper diet, exercise and plenty of rest. Fit to fight, hooyah."


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