TRAVIS AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. —
Strength, resiliency, and fitness remain core qualities that drive Airmen to succeed and lead in mission readiness. Lt. Col. Dennis Hale, 349th Mission Support Group commander, is embodying these principles by hosting monthly fitness sessions on Saturdays during the Unit Training Assembly (UTA) weekends.
The fitness hour, held twice a day at the base fitness center, offers flexibility for Airmen to join before or after their duties. Sessions are scheduled for 5:15 a.m. and 5:15 p.m., making it easier for more members to participate.
“I’d never been on a spin bike until years ago when Col. Kozak, former 349 AMW commander, invited all the commanders out for a spin session one morning,” he said. “After that, I received a gift card for a spin club in Redding, California, and I’ve been going 4-5 times a week for years, logging over 500 rides.”
Hale’s passion for spin classes grew over time, and he eventually became a certified instructor. Upon returning to Travis from his assignment at 4th Air Force, he began offering classes during UTA weekends, naming them the “5one5” classes to represent the 5:15 a.m. and 5:15 p.m. start times.
This spin class offers something engaging and challenging while making fitness fun. “My class is chalked full of various aerobic drills and upper body work that is done all while riding to the rhythm of some great music. You are rarely in the saddle,” said Lt. Col. Hale.
Lt. Col. Hale has seen a strong turnout from fellow Airmen who’ve embraced his fitness sessions. The classes provide an opportunity for members to connect with one another while prioritizing their physical fitness—an essential part of their readiness as reservists in the Air Force Reserve.
“I hope people come out and give it a try. I guarantee you will have a good time,” Hale added.
The fitness sessions are just one example of how Hale’s leadership is helping foster a culture of health and mission success within the 349th Mission Support Group. Through his dedication, he’s not only promoting fitness but also cultivating a sense of camaraderie and resilience among his fellow Airmen.
