Cadets’ Corner is a weekly column submitted by the 37 Orville Hand Air Cadet Squadron.

This past Thursday, Oct. 19, cadets participated in their annual Cadet Fitness Assessment which is a requirement to receive their next promotion. The cadets can be seen completing the PACER (Progressive Aerobic Cardiovascular Endurance Run) portion of the assessment.

The Cadet Fitness Assessment (CFA) is composed of five evaluations, which are designed to evaluate cardiovascular fitness, muscular strength, and flexibility. These tests include:

• 20 meter shuttle run test (cardiovascular)
• push-ups (muscular strength)
• curl-ups (core strength)
• back saver sit and reach (flexibility)
• shoulder stretch (flexibility)

One of the aims of the Canadian cadet movement is to promote physical fitness. A high standard of physical fitness is a requirement for many advanced training courses and exchanges.  

Four levels may be achieved. These include bronze, silver, gold and excellence. Criteria for each level differs according to age and gender.

To safely and effectively complete training, it is important that cadets be fit and healthy. Before applying for certain courses and exchanges, cadets may be required to achieve a certain level on the Cadet Fitness Assessment.

On top of fitness, the cadets were recognized and thanked for their contribution to fundraising when they were tagging recently. Prizes were given out to cadets in draws for each shift they completed as well as to the cadet who guessed closest to the amount raised.

Congratulations to Cpl. Basmall, Sgt. Gallagher, Cpl. Naumenko and FSgt. Troke. Each winner will receive their own personalized water bottle with the squadron crest, which will be available to purchase for $22 for the other cadets.

We are now recruiting for the 2023-24 training year. Please visit bradfordaircadets.ca/joining-information/ for more details.