Fitness Enhancement Program (FEP), the command's action plan to maintain and improve the fitness and health of the entire crew.

Sailors aboard the aircraft carrier USS George Washington (CVN 73) can participate in the ship's command Fitness Enhancement Program (FEP), the command's action plan to maintain and improve the fitness and health of the entire crew.

Sailors maintain their physical fitness in order to ensure mission readiness by conducting bi-annual physical fitness assessment (PFA). FEP is one way for Sailors to prepare for the PFA. The program is available on a voluntary basis for all Sailors but it is mandatory for Sailors who do not achieve a high enough score on the latest PFA cycle.

"The importance of coming to FEP is to improve your overall fitness," said Aviation Boatswain's Mate (Handling) Airman Dominique Simmons, a George Washington FEP participant.

Even if Sailors aren't concerned about their ability to pass the PFA, FEP can still provide an avenue for self-improvement. Command fitness leaders (CFLs) can educate participants on maintaining their health through nutrition and exercise.

"I enjoy FEP because it's an opportunity to try my hardest and better myself for my future because I want to stay in the Navy," said Simmons.

One of the advantages of FEP is Sailors can draw support from their shipmates who also participate.

"It can be hard to motivate yourself working out alone," said Machinist Mate 3rd Class Savannah Maes, a George Washington assistant command fitness leader (ACFL). "Working out in a group you have someone next to you who is doing the same thing and can hype you up."

FEP is led by CFLs, ACFLs or a Morale, Welfare and Recreation (MWR) representative.

"This is my favorite thing to do and I love to help people," said Electronics Technician (Nuclear) 1st Class Dianna Pelton, a George Washington ACFL. "Our Sailors who are working to stay in standards or to pass their PFAs come to FEP and we work with them and train them."
George Washington FEP is held Monday through Friday at 6 a.m. to 7 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.

For more information, contact your CFL, ACFL or MWR representative. You can also visit www.navyfitness.org to learn more about the fitness programs available to Sailors.

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