News

Physical fitness uniform has wear guidelines too

  • Published
  • By Master Sgt. Stephanie Atwell
  • 446th Aerospace Medicine Squadron First Sergeant
JOINT BASE LEWIS-MCCHORD, Wash. --  The new physical fitness test requirements have me shaking in my shoes! Not because I won't be able to do enough sit-ups or push-ups, but because I'm not sure how to wear the PT uniform and now we're going to be tested twice a year!

Prepare for your PT test well ahead of time. And once the day arrives, hopefully your only concern will be the proper wear of the PT uniform.

Shirt in? Shirt out? Hair up? Hair down? Below are some common questions about wear of the PT uniform and the answers.

First, do I have to wear Reflective belts and reflective arm bands?
Proper reflective items (belts, arm bands, etc.) are required during periods of low light conditions when wearing the optional running shorts as part of the PT uniform. However, reflective belts, arm bands, and such are optional when wearing combinations of the standard issue PT uniform items that contain reflective material on the top and bottom garments.

Next, can I wear my name brand socks?
Socks will be white and may have small trademark logos.

It's hot in July, but not in the morning! Can I wear my jacket unzipped and push my sleeves up?
The jacket will be zipped at least halfway between the waistband and collar. Sleeves will end within 1-inch of the wrist.

What about my shirt, do I tuck it in or leave it out?
The short-sleeve T-shirt will be tucked into shorts or running pants at all times. Do not push up, remove or cut sleeves. The long-sleeve tee shirt will be tucked into the
PT uniform shorts or running pants at all times. Do not push up, remove, or cut sleeves.

I hate to have my bottom half swishing - may I wear spandex under the shorts?
Both short and full length solid black or dark blue spandex may be worn and visible under the PT uniform and optional running shorts.

Last, but not least, can I take down my hair to run?
All personal grooming standards apply while participating in physical fitness activities - with one exception: long female hair will be secured, but may have loose ends.

If you have any other questions, ask your first sergeant or refer to AFI 36-2903 and HQ USAF Attachment 3 to such AFI, dated 17 November 2009.