Fitness for Pilots & Aviators

The purpose of this book is to provide you with basic guidelines for developing a balanced physical fitness program and customizing a workout to fit your needs. We recommend that you consult a physician before starting any type of physical fitness program. Additionally, an exercise physiologist or professional trainer can help you personalize a specific fitness program.

Benefits of Being Physically Fit “Use it or lose it!” That old saying not only relates to certain flying skills but also to the human body. Muscles that aren’t used tend to atrophy and weaken. To keep muscles and the cardiovascular system working at their optimum levels, they must be stimulated and utilized. Being more physically fit will generally make you look and feel better. Additionally, people that carry too much weight or are bordering on obesity often encounter many health-related problems, ranging from chronic backaches to advanced cardiovascular disease. Finally, a high level of personal fitness can help you to cope with the various emotional and physical stressors that are encountered in the flight environment.