Alaska Reserve unit embodies fitness culture

  • Published
  • By Maj. Ashley Conner
  • 477th Fighter Group Public Affairs
JOINT BASE ELMENDORF-RICHARDSON, Alaska --  At just over 200 pounds and a PT test score of 23.8 Senior Airman Kyle Cahill knew he had to make some lifestyle changes if he wanted to continue his military career.

"I served in the Navy from 2000 to 2004 and joined the Air Force Reserve in 2011," said Cahill, 477th Force Support Squadron Knowledge manager. "It wasn't until I took my PT test that I knew I needed to make some changes."

Cahill said he lacked motivation and didn't completely appreciate how important healthy eating was to one's overall health and fitness.

"I didn't understand my true fitness potential," he said. "It wasn't until I stopped making excuses and really focused on my goals that I truly started noticing the changes."

Cahill's change began by the desire to support his wife who had started a new health and fitness regime.

"My wife started to diet and was dropping weight considerably," he said. "I watched her go through the struggles and I wanted to support her. I joined her and never thought I would drop weight as quickly as I did."

Overtime Cahill lost 55 pounds and increased his PT test score from 23.8 to 99.3 points and is now committed to maintaining a healthy lifestyle. 

"The thought of losing all that I worked for is enough to motivate me forever. I could never have done this without support from my family," said Cahill.  "When I look for fitness inspiration or role models within the fighter group I look for the accomplishments of the individuals at all levels and goals. There are many fitness pros out there but there are also people who are struggling to do a few extra pushups or sit ups during PT or trying to run just a little faster for a test."

Col. David Piffarerio, 477th Fighter Group commander, is not only the natural leader as the senior officer in charge, but at 43 years old he is also a  fitness role model having won a handful of CrossFit and weightlifting competitions.

"I've been doing CrossFit since 2007 and have never looked back," said Piffarerio. "It's a phenomenal fitness program as I'm in the best shape of my life. It's very challenging but rewarding at the same time as you meet fitness goals and accomplish things you never thought you could."

Earlier this month Piffarerio competed in another CrossFit Alaska State championship and took first place in his division, but he wants his Airmen to know that it is more than just about winning trophies. 

"Fitness isn't just about passing the PT test.  It's about a lifelong journey of health and wellness," said Piffarerio. "I want them to be healthy and fit long after their Air Force career.  If I can do it at 43, then I know any of my Airmen can."

Currently 88 percent of the 477th Fighter Group have passing PT test scores but Piffarerio hopes to increase it to 95 and eventually 100 percent of the group obtaining passing scores.