Last spring, East Tennessee State University students saw notices across the campus advertising a new opportunity- a physical training (PT) course offered through the ETSU Military Science Department.
This class was not intended exclusively for ROTC students, but for a wide range of athletes, “extreme sport” enthusiasts, and those interested in losing weight. Participants sported shirts encouraging others to “just take the class” and initiate lifestyle changes for improved health.
The spring class set as their goals improvement in the number of sit-ups and push-ups members could do, a better time in a two-mile run, and weight loss.
The 54 classmates increased their number of sit-ups by 14, their push-ups by 10, and improved their time for a two-mile run by three minutes. Those attempting to lose weight shed up to 19 pounds.
As one participant said of the eight-week experience, “Sometimes it is hard to get up in the morning, but after PT, I feel great for the rest of the day.”
Another student added, “I enjoy the challenge that our PT class provides; I love the camaraderie I have built with everybody, as we push each other to excel physically and mentally. PT works for me. It pushes me when I can’t push myself.”
For further information about the course, listed in the ETSU fall schedule of classes as MSCI-1217, contact the ETSU Military Science Department at (423) 439-4269.

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