TINKER AIR FORCE BASE, Okla. --
Due to a limited number of fitness staff, the Gerrity Gym
is changing its hours to 5 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. Monday through Friday.
In September, the staff manning percentage dropped to less
than 65 percent and could no longer keep the current hours.
The decision was not an easy one.
“We know the importance of fitness to our base personnel
and the closing of the Gerrity facility an hour and a half earlier during the
week was the best course of action in response to our present manning
shortage,” said Capt. Samantha Davies.
By closing the Gerrity early in its least used hours, it
allowed officials to staff the two Fitness Access centers (Bldgs. 216 and 3705)
four hours per day and remain the after-hours facilities. It also enabled the
Gerrity to remain open seven days a week.
Anyone looking for a place to work out after 8:30 p.m. needs to get
their CAC registered for one of the two Fitness Access centers.
“We have devoted a lot of effort into improving fitness
opportunities and facilities at Tinker AFB,” said Capt. Davies. “In the last
two years, we have designated both 216 and 3705 as Fitness Access centers,
giving patrons a great place to work out virtually 24 hours a day. We have a
fantastic football field, our softball fields were re-graded and improved this
summer and, of course, work is ongoing for a newly resurfaced running track.”
In addition, the size of the Gerrity mezzanine has doubled
and a new state-of-the-art room for free weights was added and nearly every
piece of cardio equipment was replaced this year.
“We are firmly committed to fitness and are working the
manning issue,” said Captain Davies.
When/if more staff becomes available, hours will be
adjusted accordingly.
The fitness staff appreciates your understanding and
patience.