If you're looking for some exercise or fun and competition, then there's a swishing good time waiting for you on Joint Base Lewis-McChord (JBLM).
Beginning in the middle of January, intramural basketball for both men and women begins on JBLM. But if rebounds and free throws aren't your thing, then check out the intramural volleyball and bowling leagues coming up.
The reason JBLM offers recreational sports is simple.
"It's for the morale of the airmen and soldiers," said Meagan Devine, who works with the fitness center on base.
It also gives servicemembers a chance to stay in shape while playing on a team.
The men's recreational basketball league begins Jan. 17 and ends in late March. Typically, the men's basketball league is the most popular of the rec sports offered by JBLM, with about 15 teams formed. They usually play a couple of games a week.
In January, JBLM recreational sports also offers a women's basketball league for those 18 and older - participants don't have to be in the military.
"Anyone can play," Devine said.
The coaches meeting to form teams for the women's basketball league was Jan. 5, and the season begins Jan. 21. Registration is $20 per player.
To sign up for either basketball league or for more information, stop by the recreational sports office in Bldg. 3236 on JBLM, visit jblmmwr.com or call 253.967.4768.
Basketball is the only team sport offered on JBLM in January. However, if basketball isn't for you, a bowling league and a volleyball league will start Feb. 8. The open volleyball season starts Feb. 18, and the commander's cup volleyball league starts Feb. 27.
For those more suited toward running, the annual Shamrock 5K fun run will be held March 11.
Each fitness center on JBLM offers aerobic activities ranging from spin cycle (stationary bike workouts) to Zumba (instructional aerobic) classes.
Classes are offered every day at the McChord Main Fitness Center, the McVeigh Sports and Fitness Center, the Sheridan Sports and Fitness Center, Soldiers Field House, and the Wilson Sports and Fitness Center. The phone number and locations of each of the fitness centers, along with aerobics schedules, are on the MWR website.
There are also opportunities available for those who want to be volunteer instructors. Visit the website for information and registration information.
One year-around sport that's offered at JBLM to help airmen and soldiers stay in shape is swimming. There are four swimming pools on base: Keeler Pool, Kimbro Pool, McChord Outdoor Pool and the Soldiers Field House Pool. Interested in becoming a life guard? Take the American Red Cross Lifeguarding Course. For more information and to schedule a pretest, call the Kimbro Pool at 253.967.5026.