Some Sailors burn off the stress of being out to sea through exercise and physical activities aboard the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72). For those who do, they have a variety of options to do so.

Nine gyms are available to Abraham Lincoln Sailors, provided by the ship's Morale, Welfare and Recreation (MWR/S-7). Jenny Snyder, the Fun Boss aboard Abraham Lincoln is the head of MWR, its activities and equipment. For Snyder, the health of Sailors is her priority.

"Physical fitness is critical to a Sailor's well-being and health," said Snyder. "Even without a fit boss at the moment, we are trying our best to provide any and all possibilities for the crew to get out and get fit. We've been setting up basketball and dodgeball games, and we have another 5K coming up soon."

Snyder said she hopes with all the opportunities and resources provided; all the Sailors aboard Lincoln will pass the next Physical Readiness Test (PRT), which consists of timed sit ups, push ups, and a cardio event.

"Right now is the best time to start a fitness regimen or keep to the one you have. Some Sailors fall into a relaxed state after the PRT and don't remember to keep up with dieting and exercising," said Snyder. "Before they know it, they're told they have 10 weeks until the test and go into a panic trying to get in shape."

The Connex Box is one of the gym options for Sailors and is located in the hangar bay. It offers various equipment for strength training and cardio. It is open 0900-1100 and 1930-2130, Monday through Thursday and is managed by Lincoln's Assistant Command Fitness Leader Culinary Specialist 3rd Class Sha'ron Fuller.

"Being physically active is extremely important at sea, it builds the endurance Sailors need to make it through the day and get to come together and break a sweat," said Fuller. "Being fit isn't a goal you can just achieve, it's something you keep chasing after, and while you're chasing it you'll be clearing your mind and melting the stress away. It's a win-win."

Sailors work long hours at sea and constantly have to stay ahead of the game with fitness and healthy eating habits.

For Sailors looking for a moment away from the long working hours, exercising provides a chance to get out of their work-space and burn some calories.

"It's relaxing to come out here, feel the breeze coming out from sea while exercising," said Naval Air Crewman (Helicopter) 2nd Class Raymond Quinones. "Even with how busy I am out to sea I always make time to get out here, though I mix in weights into cardio to save time."

As important as it is to stay active out to sea, it is just as important to watch your diet, according to Lt. John McGinniss, Lincoln's physical therapist.

"It is crucial to be mindful of your eating, stay hydrated, and get adequate sleep," said McGinniss. "Your body will thank you for it."

McGinniss also said it's important to get solid, consistent sleep every night so the following day Sailors won't need to find a boost through sugar-filled energy drinks, which can lead to an unwanted increase of appetite, or larger portions of food.

"Get your necessary sleep, water, exercise and don't skip breakfast," said McGinniss. "It's a health choice that'll benefit you down the road."

MWR is looking for volunteers to be fitness instructors for yoga, Zumba, spin class, or other functional fitness classes onboard.

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