After Hours Fitness Access For DoD Civilians

Keeping up with a regular fitness routine has become easier for Department of Defense (DoD) civilians at Keesler Air Force Base thanks to a new 24/7 after hours fitness access initiative. Beginning September 1, Keesler government civilians with Common Access Cards (CAC) have an opportunity to sign up for the Blake Fitness Center's 24/7 After Hours Access Program. With After Hours Access, patrons will be granted access to the center during unmanned "after hours" via their registered CAC card. The registration process includes signing a safety memorandum of understanding as well as completing an emergency equipment/exits and proper use of equipment orientation. 

With the Department of Defense's emphasis on total force fitness, it's easy to see where the expansion of the program to DoD civilians is needed in today's military culture. "When you look at total force fitness, it's important that it's not just identified as something that is relegated to the military population of the base. By including our civilians that work day in and day out with our military members, we are boosting resilience by helping our community build and maintain warrior lethality," said Roy Jackson, Sustainment Services Flight Chief for the 81st Force Support Squadron. "Additionally, by opening up for those on swing shifts or with non-traditional work hours, we are giving them a chance to improve their overall well-being which can be helpful in retaining employees down the road."

"When you look at total force fitness, it's important that it's not just identified as something that is relegated to the military population of the base."

Roy Jackson, 81 FSS Sustainment Services Flight Chief, 2019

Once registered for the After Hours Access Program, patrons will use their CAC similar to how a lodging key is used for entrance to the facility. Dependents will also be allowed in with the registered member, however all age rules for the facility still apply during unmanned hours. Should any patron violate fitness center policies, privileges of the program will be immediately revoked and subject to discipline action as needed. 

After Hours Access has been in effect since 2015 for active duty, Guard and Reserve Airmen, Sailors and Marines. For more information on the program visit discoverkeesler.com/fitness or call 228-377-4385.