Truman Sailors Participate in Command PT

By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class David R. Finley Jr., USS Harry S. Truman Public Affairs

NORFOLK, Va. (NNS) -- Sailors assigned to the aircraft carrier USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75) attended the ship's command physical training (PT) at Naval Station (NS) Norfolk April 4.

Truman command fitness leaders (CFL) worked alongside Morale, Welfare, and Recreation (MWR) Waterfront Fitness to train a group of more than 1,000 Truman Sailors.

"The purpose of the PT session was to build morale and serve as a team-building exercise for Truman," said Chief Legalman (AW/SW) Kristine Skupnik, Truman's CFL. "PT builds camaraderie and is a good way to start the day."

Skupnik said the event was important because it allowed Sailors the chance to work out built-up energy in a positive way.

"Truman really rocked it today," said Susan Lowry, NS Norfolk MWR fitness director. "I enjoyed the enthusiasm and participation that the Sailors displayed out there."

The PT session was the first of its kind aboard Truman. The event featured cardio-kickboxing and strength training exercises.

"I always enjoy leading these classes for Sailors," said Lowry. "I have a Sailor at home, and I like to give back to the Navy anyway I can."

According to Sailors who attended, the session was a great way to prepare for the upcoming physical fitness assessment (PFA) cycle.

"I take my role as a CFL seriously," said Aviation Boatswain's Mate (Handling) 3rd Class (AW) Stephanie Rodriguez, air department CFL. "I like to help Sailors prepare for the PFA, and I want everyone to pass and do their very best."

The PT session gave Sailors a chance to have a good time, said Rodriguez.

"It was a real morale booster," said Rodriguez. "PT brings us closer together as a crew and prepares us to work together as a team."

Truman is undergoing a docking planned incremental availability at Norfolk Naval Shipyard in Portsmouth, Va.

Fitness is one of the key elements of the 21st Century Sailor and Marine initiative which consolidates a set of objectives and policies, new and existing, to maximize Sailor and Marine personal readiness, build resiliency and hone the most combat-effective force in the history of the Department of the Navy.