I Got Your Six Provides Veterans Free Gym Access and Fitness Support

I Got Your Six Fitness: Supporting Veterans Through Exercise

I Got Your Six Fitness is a nonprofit organization that provides free gym memberships and personal training to veterans and active duty military. Their mission is to support the physical and mental health of those who have served through community, accountability and physical fitness.

The Meaning Behind the Name

"I got your six" is a term used in the military meaning "I've got your back." It refers to watching someone's six o'clock position or behind them. The name I Got Your Six Fitness reflects the concept of fellow veterans supporting each other through fitness.

Providing Access to Fitness

One of the primary aims of I Got Your Six is to make fitness accessible and approachable for veterans. They partner with local gyms to offer free memberships so veterans can work out without cost barriers.

The organization also trains veterans to become certified personal trainers. These trainers then provide free sessions to other veterans, helping motivate them to reach their fitness goals.

The Benefits of Physical Activity

Regular exercise and activity has been shown to greatly benefit veterans managing conditions like post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, anxiety, chronic pain and sleep disorders.

In particular, the endorphins released during exercise can improve mental outlook and reduce stress. The social support provided at gyms also helps veterans feel less isolated.

Camaraderie Through Fitness

In addition to physical strength, I Got Your Six Fitness aims to build community and camaraderie between veterans through fitness. Working out alongside fellow veterans provides motivation, accountability and encouragement.

The organization hosts strength competitions and social events to bring veterans together. This community fosters understanding and helps veterans feel supported during transition to civilian life.

Overcoming Obstacles

For some veterans, mental and physical disabilities pose challenges to getting active. I Got Your Six Fitness works to accommodate disabilities and provide adaptive resources.

Options like wheelchair-focused exercises, swimming programs, and home workout plans help injured veterans safely improve strength and mobility at their own pace.

Benefits of Exercise for Veterans

Physical activity programs tailored for veterans provide many advantages that can aid their health and wellbeing.

Stress Relief

Exercise releases feel-good endorphins and neurotransmitters in the brain that uplift mood. This makes physical activity an effective stress reducer that can alleviate tension and anxiety.

PTSD and Trauma Support

Veterans suffering from PTSD often struggle with depression, anger, isolation and sleep disturbances. Regular workouts and social support from fellow veterans can lessen the burden of PTSD.

Chronic Pain Management

Gentle strength training, stretching and aerobic exercise can help veterans cope with chronic back, joint and muscle pain. Better pain management improves function and quality of life.

Weight Control

Difficulty losing weight is a common concern for veterans. Fitness programs help veterans achieve healthy weights through calorie burn and metabolism boosts.

Reduced Risk of Disease

Being active lowers veteran risk factors for heart disease, diabetes, osteoporosis and certain cancers. This protects long-term health.

Improved Sleep

Difficulty falling asleep and frequent waking is prevalent among veterans. Regular exercise leads to deeper, more restful sleep at night.

Tips for Starting an Exercise Routine

Beginning a new workout regimen can seem daunting. These helpful tips can make easing into exercise feel more manageable for veterans:

Talk to Your Doctor

Get medical clearance before intense workouts, especially if managing chronic health conditions. Your doctor can advise safe activities.

Start Slowly

Pace yourself at the beginning by alternating moderate activity with brief rest periods to avoid overexertion.

Focus on Proper Form

Using correct posture, alignment and movement technique prevents injury and joint strain.

Listen to Your Body

Note pain signals, shortness of breath or dizziness as signs to pause or modify an exercise. Don't push past your limits.

Schedule Workouts

Mark planned workout sessions on your calendar to prioritize them and establish a routine.

Find an Accountability Partner

A workout buddy or personal trainer provides motivation to keep up with fitness goals.

Track Your Progress

Use a journal, app or wearable device to monitor achievements like weight lifted, miles run or duration completed.

10 Great Exercises for Veterans

Veterans dealing with injuries, strength limitations and health conditions should choose workouts that are low impact yet effective. Here are 10 great options:

1. Walking

Brisk walking provides cardio benefits without joint strain. Gradually increase distance and speed.

2. Water Aerobics

Water offers resistance in a low-gravity environment perfect for mobility issues.

3. Cycling

Stationary bikes and recumbent cycles allow a vigorous workout without impact.

4. Swimming

Swimming works all muscle groups with minimal joint compression.

5. Yoga

Gentle yoga improves flexibility, breathing and relaxation.

6. Tai Chi

Controlled motions enhance balance, strength and concentration.

7. Stretching

Daily stretching maintains range of motion and reduces stiffness.

8. Light Weights

Low weight and higher repetition strength training avoids heavy strain.

9. Chair Exercise

Seated fitness routines allow veterans to stay active without standing.

10. Physical Therapy

Individualized PT regimens help veterans overcome pain and mobility limitations.

Overcoming Barriers to Exercise

Veterans strive to be active but face real obstacles like injuries, disabilities and busy schedules. Some strategies to conquer workout barriers include:

Seek Accommodations and Adaptations

Ask about disability gym access and workouts adapted for limitations to make fitness achievable.

Adjust Intensity

Lighten weight, walk instead of run, reduce reps, and insert rest breaks to tailor exercise to your current capability.

Change Your Mindset

Focus on ability rather than disability. Note every fitness gain as progress to stay motivated.

Make It Fun

Incorporate variety through sports, classes and recreation to prevent boredom.

Find Support

Join veteran fitness groups for camaraderie. Enlist friends and family to exercise together.

Be Flexible

When obligations arise, get creative with lunch hour walks, active video games and household chores to squeeze in activity.

Embrace a Healthier Lifestyle

Veterans sacrifice physical and mental health to protect our country. Organizations like I Got Your Six Fitness provide supportive communities where veterans can improve their wellbeing through regular exercise and shared experience. Check your local area for veteran fitness resources.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.