Bodybuilding: Keeping Airmen fit and competitive

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Joshua Smoot
  • 341st Missile Wing Public Affairs
MALMSTROM AIR FORCE BASE, Mont. --  According to its official definition, bodybuilding is the practice of developing the muscles of the body through weightlifting and diet.

Some people take it a step further and show off their hard work and dedication by performing in bodybuilding competitions.

"I enjoy the challenge of trying to take a body that is above average and perfecting it," said Senior Airman Christopher Almaraz, 819th RED HORSE Squadron structural journeyman.

Along with Almaraz, there are other Airmen at Malmstrom Air Force Base, Montana, who compete in bodybuilding competitions.

"Bodybuilding has pushed me in every aspect," said 1st Lt. Susan Baumgartner, 10th Missile Squadron deputy combat crew commander. "Obviously, the workouts are long and intense but that's just the beginning. The nutrition involved is just as important as the gym, if not more. There are a thousand things that go into prepping for a show from posing, to carb cycling and putting your social life on hold. I cook every meal I eat and measure foods down to the ounce or gram."

Almaraz and Baumgartner have been active individuals for a big portion of their lives.

Almaraz used to be a competitive runner in cross country and track, so fitness has always been a part of his lifestyle, he said.

Baumgartner played volleyball and has ran numerous marathons.

"Working out has been my therapy and passion for the past seven years," she said.

Although, they have been active for many years, they both just recently began competing in bodybuilding competitions.

Almaraz, a little more experienced than Baumgartner, has been competing for about three years compared to Baumgartner who just recently competed in her first competition.

Both individuals recently competed in the 2014 Big Sky Championship for bodybuilding. In their height categories, Almaraz placed first and Baumgartner placed second.

Both Almaraz and Baumgartner believe participating in bodybuilding helps in the everyday Air Force lifestyle.

Baumgartner believes the Air Force has been pushing for a stronger emphasis on physical fitness, so bodybuilding can help Airmen to become 'fit to fight.'

"Being a body builder helps promote health and fitness for the Air Force," Almaraz said. "It also sets a good example for younger Airmen and newer Airmen coming into the military by stressing the importance of how living a healthy lifestyle can improve the workplace and everyday life."

Bodybuilding involves individuals who are competitive, hardworking and wanting to push their bodies to new levels.

"Bodybuilding is an extremely competitive culture," Baumgartner said. "You can only strive to do your best and make sure that you are pushing yourself to your max."

For individuals interested in competing, the base fitness center is holding a bodybuilding competition, May 22 at 6 p.m. During the competition, males and females will be judged on the size and symmetry of their muscles. Contestants must sign up at the fitness center front desk by May 9.

Winning a bodybuilding competition takes more than just being fit. Choosing the right pose, routine music and suit are crucial to the athlete's success. The fitness center is holding classes that will help contestants in those areas so they are better prepared for the bodybuilding competition on May 22. The classes are scheduled for 9 a.m. for males and 10:30 a.m. for females, May 10 and May 17 in the front aerobics room.