If you have even just a couple of years under your belt as a firefighter, then you are probably still familiar with the huge push in both the career and volunteer/part-pay sectors, for firefighter health, wellness and fitness-for-duty. Some interpret this as it’s time to go to the gym and “muscle-up.” And, while that may assist you in trimming some body fat and maybe even learning how to eat in a healthy style, it doesn’t mean that all the time and effort will make you a “firefighter fit-for-duty.” Why? Because a muscle building program is simply not going to necessarily prepare you for the physical stress and strain that we undergo as firefighters.
If you ask any of your co-workers who are into fitness-for-duty or follow any of those folks on social media, you’ll see that one does not have to look like Mr./Ms. Universe, nor eat like one, to be a firefighter who is fit-for duty. Proper eating habits and regular workouts using the correct and proper exercises, will help you transform into a fit firefighter.
My guests on this podcast, Paul O. Davis, PhD, FACSM and Assistant Chief Jack Taylor of the Irving TX Fire Department know quite a bit about this topic. Why? Because, Dr. Davis was instrumental in developing the program that the Irving Fire Department began using over 25 YEARS AGO, that is still going strong today. And Chief Taylor became a “member” of this program when he first joined the department and fully invested himself to help other firefighters, which he is still doing today.
On this episode, both of my guests will explain the amazing and positive changes that this fitness program has brought to the IFD. From healthier and fit-for-duty younger firefighters to currently having over eighty firefighters over the age of 50 and some who are in their 60’s and still serving on the front lines.
You will want to listen to this podcast! Share it with others, including your chief officers. Help bring a positive and healthy change to your department. Tune in at www.dalmatianproductions.tv or listen on your favorite podcast platform.