Breaking winter fitness standards with Cold Steel Published May 11, 2011 By David R. Hopper 55th Wing Public Affairs OFFUTT AIR FORCE BASE, Neb. -- On Jan. 31, 2011, a challenge was issued at Offutt AFB. This challenge was not just for the warrior but for all who had the courage to rise up against the snow, the bone-chilling wind, and most of all - against diminishing personal fitness standards. Born in the dead of winter, this was the Cold Steel Challenge. As the Cold Steel Challenge came to an end on April 25, more than 600 servicemembers, DOD civilians and family members rose to meet the 12-week challenge, but only one in each category earned the top prize. "I originally developed the concept for the Cold Steel Challenge as a way to help leaders actively support the physical fitness of their personnel when conditions or circumstances prevent regular organized or team physical training," said Marine Col. Joe Craft, chief of the strategy and integration division for the U.S. Strategic Command plans and policy directorate. With a busy family life or through harsh winter weather, military members can find it difficult to work out regularly, eat a balanced diet, and live a healthy lifestyle. The Cold Steel Challenge was designed to confront frozen mentalities and break through to improve the overall physical fitness culture of the Offutt community. The overall success of the first-ever Cold Steel Challenge wasn't just measured by points but by the pounds participants lost. More than 2,287 pounds were lost for an average of 3.5 pounds per participant within 12 weeks. The top overall female award went to Marine Capt. Rosella Iaccino from USSTRATCOM. "Just getting up and getting out was the most challenging part," said Captain Iaccino. Participants started the challenge by registering in the Cold Steel fitness database and logging their physical activity to earn fitness points. Points could also be earned by losing weight, eating fruits and vegetables, and not smoking or drinking. "The cold steel challenge provided me the opportunity to take a more active role in promoting fitness and to literally lead by example," said Capt. Ryan Wippler, 55th Medical Group and the male winner of the Cold Steel Challenge. "Just being consistent for the entire program was the most difficult part for me." Even though Cold Steel has come to an end for this season, individuals can still go to the Cold Steel Challenge website at www.coldsteelchallenge.org, create an account and learn how to become healthier. The goal of fitness is never out of season. The winners of the 2011 Cold Steel Challenge are: Top Independent Team Award (2-9 members) USSTRATCOM/PMO Top Independent Team Award (10-19 members) USSTRATCOM/J87 Top Independent Team Award (20+ members) USSTRATCOM/J9 Top Overall Male Award Capt. Ryan Wippler, 55th MDG Top Overall Female Award Capt. Rosella Iaccino, USSTRATCOM/J010 Top Overall Male Award, Family Member Scott Jones Top Overall Female Award, Family Member Sierra Kimel Top Overall Male Award, U.S. Air Force Capt. Ryan Wippler, 55th MDG Top Overall Female Award, U.S. Air Force Capt. Liane Zivitski, 97th Intelligence Squadron Top Overall Male Award, U.S. Army Lt. Col. David Wooten, USSTRATCOM/J872 Top Overall Female Award, U.S. Army Staff Sgt. Esperanza Hermosillo, USSTRATCOM/J14 Top Overall Male Award, U.S. Navy Petty Officer 2nd Class Bryce Gonzales, USSTRATCOM/J2 Top Overall Female Award, U.S. Navy Lt. Stephanie Murdock, USSTRATCOM/J020 Top Overall Male Award, U.S. Marine Corps Maj. Robert Brunkalla, USSTRATCOM/J35 Top Overall Female Award, U.S. Marine Corps Capt. Rosella Iaccino, USSTRATCOM/J010 Top Overall USSTRATCOM Military Male Award Petty Officer 2nd Class Bryce Gonzales, USSTRATCOM/J2 Top Overall USSTRATCOM Military Female Award Capt. Rosella Iaccino, USSTRATCOM/J010 Top Overall USSTRATCOM Civilian Male Award Bobby Neal, USSTRATCOM/J872 Top Overall USSTRATCOM Civilian Female Award Rachel Buckner, USSTRATCOM/J87 Top Overall 55th Wing Military Male Award Capt. Ryan Wippler, 55th MDG Top Overall 55th Wing Military Female Award Capt. Liane Zivitski, 97th IS Top Command Trophy USSTRATCOM Top Service Trophy USMC Top Directorate Trophy USSTRATCOM/J9