With the Navy-wide physical readiness test fast approaching, the aircraft carrier USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75) MWR office is providing resources to help Sailors get fit to achieve their best scores even while out to sea.

T. Nguyen, Truman's afloat fitness director said it can be difficult to find ways to get into shape the right way while out at sea, but it's not impossible.

"We offer daily equipment checkout for things like resistance bands, workout mats, jump ropes and TRX suspended training equipment," said Nguyen, known as the Fit Boss. "We have nine gyms onboard that are open 24 hours a day and we also host group fitness classes like functional fitness and boxing so Sailors have many opportunities to get in shape while out to sea."

MWR also helps Sailors by providing health consults and courtesy body composition assessments.

"MWR is a great tool to help Sailors stay active and healthy as well as improve their mental health to reduce stress while on the ship," said Nguyen. "If Sailors have any questions we are always here to help."

As the Navy is turning to a culture of fitness to keep Sailors in shape year-round, Navy fitness experts are discouraging Sailors from being in the "3-mile club."

Lt. J. Oakes, Medical department division officer said some Sailors may think of resorting to unhealthy ways of preparing for the PRT such as crash dieting or taking supplements that may have negative effects on their health.

"People who crash diet prior to the PRT put themselves at various health risks, such as kidney problems, dehydration, problems sleeping and reduced energy levels," said Oakes. "All of which can be dangerous in a
military environment."

Nguyen encourages Sailors to maintain a lifestyle of fitness rather then waiting until PRT season to get back into shape.

"Start early, don't think of it as something you have to pass," said Nguyen. "Think of it as a lifelong goal to maintain your health, not just for the Navy but for yourself."

Nguyen said small changes like rebalancing up what you eat or drink can make a big difference.

"Assess your nutrition and take one bad thing out of your diet each week. As far as working out goes, try to get in at least 30 minutes a day. Go out and find something you enjoy doing; you're more inclined to
stick to something you're interested in, so find what motivates you."

Chief Aviation Ordnanceman D. Guernsey, Truman's command fitness leader, said Sailors should stay on
top of their physical fitness.

"Don't put off until tomorrow what you can do today," said Guernsey. "Start today. Whether it's eating right, running or picking up a workout routine-start now."

Oakes said if you don't see results immediately, keep in mind that change takes time.

"Improvements in health and physical fitness need to be gradual," said Oakes. "You can't change overnight. When you finish one PRT look at where you're at and, if you're borderline in an event, start working on your
weaknesses right away to prepare yourself for the next PRT."

For more news from USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75), visit www.navy.mil/.