Big changes are possible with hard work: One Airman’s story Published May 10, 2016 By Tech. Sgt. Jim Brock 910th Airlift Wing Public Affairs YOUNGSTOWN AIR RESERVE STATION, Ohio -- Fitness is essential for U.S. military members. Air Force Airmen must pass the annual Fit to Fight fitness test. Senior Airman Chadwick McIntosh, 910th Inspector General inspections team member and full-time civilian employee with the 910th Financial Management office, realized the importance of fitness at age 25 when he could no longer pass the 1.5 mile run portion of the Fit to Fight test. He’d gained weight and wasn’t as healthy as he once was, reaching 245 pounds. “I had actually gotten out of the Air Force for a while,” said McIntosh, “realizing that I quickly went from being great at the test to not being able to do it at all.” Beginning with the goal of reaching 170 pounds, McIntosh joined Weight Watchers and lost 80 pounds within eight months. McIntosh rejoined the Air Force Reserve with a changed body and mindset. Tech. Sgt. Jessica Hall is a nutritional medicine technician with the 910th Medical Squadron. “Many people want a quick fix to lose weight, but that's not healthy and it is not realistic,” said Hall. “When it comes to weight management and overall health, it is important to eat a variety of nutrient dense foods, but at the same time you shouldn't deprive yourself of your favorite foods.” YARS offers myriad services and facilities for members to pursue healthier lifestyles. Included among base fitness center facilities are an aerobic room, cardio room, weight room, full basketball court, racquetball court, outdoor tennis court, rubberized running tracks and a softball field. On-site exercise science and certified nutrition specialists offer fitness classes and nutritional counseling. YARS is also the first Reserve installation to offer a fitness kiosk that provides on-demand video fitness instruction using a large projector screen. “Working out is a daily part of my routine, everything in life seems to be better when you are in good physical shape,” said McIntosh.” I went from failing the Fit to Fight to a 96.6 percent on my last test.” Positive encouragement from others kept McIntosh motivated throughout the process as his noticeable physical changes received constant attention. McIntosh said that the key is not cheating, even a little. “One cheat day will turn into many, and before you know it all the good you’ve done in six days has gone away with one bad day,” said McIntosh. When trying to reach fitness goals, McIntosh recommends finding a plan and sticking to it. Kevin Hyman directs the installation fitness center and says the hardest part of adopting a healthy lifestyle is mental. “The hardest muscle for people to actually start working with is the grey matter,” said Hyman. “Once you get that straight, the rest is easy."