First Friday 5Ks promote fitness

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Jonathan McElderry
  • Minot Air Force Base Public Affairs

Throughout the summer, the McAdoo Fitness Center at Minot Air Force Base will host 5K runs on the first Friday of each month.

The 5Ks are scheduled from May to September and help promote fitness and improve morale.

“One of our main goals with hosting these 5Ks is to encourage a healthy lifestyle,” said Tech. Sgt. Dennis Murphy, 5th Force Support Squadron McAdoo Fitness Center section chief.

To participate, members can sign up at the fitness center the morning of the event.

Murphy, who will host the June 5K, noted how successful the May run was.

“The first run was a complete success,” he said. “We had at least 150 people participate.”

Murphy also added how participating in these runs can be a good way to test Airmen’s cardio fitness.

“When it comes to the fitness world and PT testing, the run is the most crucial portion of the test, which makes this a great way for people to show what they’re made of when it comes to running,” Murphy said.

Judy LaRue, 5th Force Support Squadron McAdoo Fitness Center manager, also talked about how the 5Ks help Airmen improve their fitness.

“These 5Ks will help Airmen build stamina, which is a good way for them to train for their PT tests,” said LaRue. “It’s also about everyone coming together for good morale, welfare and espirit de corps.”

This is the first year the summer series of 5Ks has occurred, but the center plans to make it a recurring event for upcoming years.

The routes for the 5Ks vary, but the center aims to provide a consistent path for runners.

The 5Ks also have their own themes and awards are given to the fastest male and female after each run.

For more information, call the fitness center at 701-723-2145.