Sailors from the ballistic missile submarine USS Henry M. Jackson (SSBN 730) (Gold) team held a command physical training (PT)
session on board Naval Base Kitsap (NBK) Bangor, July 2. The Sailors proudly displayed the Navy’s new PT uniform, being the
first command to purchase them when they went on sale at NBK Bangor June 30.
“It was nice walking in this morning and seeing a gym full of people all wearing the same uniform,” said Command Master Chief
(SS) Joe Fahrney, chief of the boat of Henry M. Jackson (Gold).
Lisa Bertolacci-Starich, a fitness coordinator at the Bangor Aquatics and Fitness Center, led the command through a series of
calisthenics, combined with a modified version of a P-90X workout, popularly seen on television. She said she enjoyed watching
the command work out together wearing the same uniform.
“I think the new Navy PT uniforms are great,” said Bertolacci-Starich. I like the length of the shorts. I’ve seen guys wearing short
sleeve and long sleeve shirts. It’s uniform, and it looks great.”
There were mixed comments on the uniform’s fit and comfort during the work out.
“The material is thin, cool and breathable,” said Chief Missile Technician (SS) Adrian Watkins. “With me it’s all about comfort, and
if I’m agitated or aggravated while working out, I get annoyed. I feel very comfortable wearing this uniform; it’s refreshing to be
comfortable while working out.”
However, some Sailors found parts of the uniform uncomfortable.
“I really don’t like the liner on the inside of the shorts, but they’re OK because they’re really comfortable,” said Watkins.
“I love the shirt, however, the shorts are a bit ill-fitting,” said Fahrney. If you don’t have the right body type they don’t fit very well.”
While leading the workout, Bertolacci-Starich also noticed a possible flaw in the uniform, but otherwise enjoyed her PT session
with the Sailors.
“I think it’s hard to keep the shirts tucked in while they’re jumping around, but other than that I think it’s awesome,”
said Bertolacci-Starich. “I’ve seen guys come in to work out wearing flannel pajama bottoms before, so it’s nice to see the
change, and I think it’s respectful for the military to come out with this uniform.”