It is universally known that the military and defense industry put a very high value on physical fitness. Many former military personnel are now employed in the defense industry – for example, FBI, ICE, CIA, and many other federal agencies. In these agencies and departments, the culture of fitness is something that is appreciated and respected.
The U.S. Army website explains the importance of physical fitness, “Because a Soldier’s level of physical fitness has a direct impact on his or her combat readiness, a Soldier in the U.S. Army must be mentally and physically fit. Not only are physically fit Soldiers essential to the Army, they are also more likely to have enjoyable, productive lives. The renewed nationwide interest in fitness is accompanied by several research studies on the effects of regular participation in sound physical fitness programs. The overwhelming conclusion is that proper exercise programs enhance a person’s quality of life, improve productivity, and bring about positive physical and mental changes.”
A recent article in The Wall Street Journal detailed a fitness dilemma for David Petraeus, former U.S. General and now director of the CIA, and his quest to improve the antiquated work-out facilities at Langley Headquarters. Apparently, the Langley gym is far inferior to any Petraeus has seen before, and he strongly believes in the importance of proper physical fitness as a regular part of the day. Petraeus is renowned for his fitness regime and discipline, but he’s not the first CIA director to try to secure the funds for a new fitness facility and fail.
The article described the unfortunate situation: "CIA could get bin Laden, but it couldn’t get a gym."
The expense and complicated logistics of the facility were the main two concerns and ultimately the reasons for the failure of the plan to update and improve the gym. Perhaps they weren’t able to secure enough architects with the required security clearance to gain access to the facility. Or even more likey, in a time of severe budget crunch, it’s hard to argue a gym is critical to national security.
For now, it seems that the CIA headquarter staff will have to find some more creative ways to work out on site, or perhaps they will make use of one of the many military facilities in the area.
Diana M. Rodriguez is a native Washingtonian who currently works as a professional writer, blogger, social media expert, commentator, editor and public affairs practitioner. Diana previously worked as an editor and senior communications analyst for the Department of Defense.
