Fitness Center receives 5-star rating Published Dec. 29, 2008 By Airman 1st Class Benjamin Stratton Minot Air Force Base Public Affairs MINOT AIR FORCE BASE, N.D. -- The McAdoo Sports and Fitness Center here received a five-star rating recently for the first time since the facility officially opened in June 2006. "It took a lot of teamwork to secure this prestigious award," said Doug Kingery, 5th Force Support Squadron fitness director. "It all starts from the front desk greeting customers and strong communication among staff." In 1998, Air Force Services Agency realized the need for a formal fitness recognition program. As a result of combined efforts from base, major command and agency personnel, the Five Star Fitness Center Recognition Program was established in 2002. This Five Star program provides annual recognition, acknowledging those bases that have reached the highest standard of achievement in all aspects of program management, AFSA officials said. The comprehensive program recognizes excellence in the five areas of operations, programs, training, facilities and customer service. "For us in the services world, this is the top award we can attain on our own," Mr. Kingery continued. "Many thanks must be given to those who secured the great equipment we have here. It's not only the building, but also what's inside that makes our facility the best in Air Combat Command." The fitness center boasts many of the industry's top-line equipment, from the state-of-the-art indoor running track, which is a great asset for Minot winters, to the large weight rooms and indoor pool, said Mr. Kingery. He added, Fitness center staff like to increase awareness of the services offered on base. Many people seek personal trainers at the facilities downtown without realizing what is available to them on base at no cost for most services, Mr. Kingery added. Additional services provided beyond the facility and equipment includes: certified personal trainers, a variety of aerobic classes, intramural and extramural sports, massage therapy, as well as a variety of self-paced incentive programs. Working with a diverse group of people is a mainstay in the Air Force and is no different for the Warbirds at the fitness center. The facility would not be a success without the hardworking Airmen here, said Master Sgt. Patrick Bennet, 5th FSS fitness and sports section chief. For more information on the fitness center, call 723-2145 or visit their Web site at http://www.5thservices.com/activities/fitness/index.htm.