Navy PFA Award, Fitness Trackers Pilot in the Works

The idea of an award for PT studs has popped up and fallen by the wayside over the past decade, but following an announcement by Navy Secretary Ray Mabus in May, it appears that the dream might become a reality in 2016.

Dubbed the Outstanding Fitness Award, the honor would go to sailors who earn three outstanding grades in a row on their PRT.

Leadership has not decided whether it will be a ribbon or a medal, but it will be authorized for uniforms.

"We are in the initial stages of developing a PFA ribbon," Lt. Cmdr. Nate Christensen, spokesman for the chief of naval personnel, said. "However, the eligibility criteria and timeline for release have not been determined at this time."

Closer to reality is a pilot program testing fitness trackers on sailors in the fleet, to help them measure their activity and stay on top of their goals.

The pilot will take place in Pacific Fleet and Navy Reserve units, Chief of Navy Personnel Adm. Bill Moran told Navy Times earlier this year.

Fitness trackers work by measuring heart rate and steps per day, but are notoriously finicky when it comes to measuring exercise on a bicycle or any stationary equipment.

"We have to measure it, track it for a full year, but the notion is rather than two annual tests, it's a focus on: Are you making improvements and are you meeting standards for weight control, blood pressure, cholesterol?" Moran said.

The Navy is considering several options but has not narrowed one down yet, Christensen said.

By Meghann Myers, Staff writer
NavyTimes