If you're new here, we're the First Responders Support Training (FRST) Center, and we're dedicated to promoting health and wellness for first responders statewide. This month, we will share an update on the New Year's Strength Challenge, Nutrition Resources, FRST Center's Newest Lab Members, and the Firefighter Wellness Summit! Thank you for joining us this month -- we are excited to have you here!
New Year's Strength Challenge
The FRST Center Lab’s New Year’s Strength Challenge is a department-based competition designed to bring South Dakota fire departments together through strength-focused workouts that require minimal equipment, time, and space. This challenge promotes teamwork and friendly competition between departments, with prizes awarded to top-performing teams. The form listed below is intended to collect interest and contact information only and does not serve as official registration. Movement is a wonderful way to feel your best and is a fantastic way to kick off 2026!
To express interest, please scan the QR code above or visit the link, Strength Challenge Interest and enter the code: EDPHYADTF
FRST Center New Members
We are excited to introduce the newest additions to our team!
Joining us are three eager Exercise Science undergraduate research assistants who are ready to contribute: Alex Pudwill, Ella Wieland, and Kayla Neugebauer.
Alex Pudwill
"I am very excited to join the FRST team as a research assistant. Working with firefighters will help me in numerous ways, personally and professionally, as I continue my undergraduate degree in Exercise Science.”
Ella Wieland
"Rooted in a rural community, I am eager to serve as a research assistant on the FRST team and contribute to research that supports those who selflessly serve as volunteer firefighters here in South Dakota."
Kayla Neugebauer
"As an undergraduate Exercise Science student, I am grateful for the opportunity to be part of a research team that works together to support the health of our first responders. I am excited to learn, grow, and contribute to meaningful work that can have a lasting impact on those who serve our communities."
On the nutrition side, we are excited to introduce two additional members: Kenzie Thomson and Erin Unzen.
Kenzie Thomson
"I am excited to see what we create as a team. The outcomes of this project have the potential to improve the quality of life for career firefighters. They give so much of themselves in pursuit of their duties, and it is meaningful to have a genuine opportunity to support them. I am grateful to be part of such a special project!"
Erin Unzen
“I am thrilled to join the FRST Center team and showcase my passion for nutrition! I look forward to working with our local first responders to support their overall health and well-being, while learning how nutrition and wellness align with the demands of their role. I am grateful for this hands-on opportunity to grow as a future healthcare professional!”
Nutrition Column
Click the button below to view our nutrition flyer featuring tips to increase our heart health, why its so important, and a delicious chili recipe to help you take the first step toward a healthier heart!
We are excited to announce the launch of our second round of focus groups this spring at the Wellness Summit, hosted here at Brookings. This is specifically for South Dakota fire chiefs of volunteer departments, and spots are limited to roughly 10-16. Attendees can expect exercise information, an interactive hands-on lunch, and mental health and stress management tools. Please email allison.barry@sdstate.edu to reserve your spot. We look forward to welcoming you and showcasing our space!
Don’t miss out—explore the FRST Center website today for previous newsletters, updates, expert tips, and resources designed to keep you strong, healthy, and ready for the job. Everything you need, all in one place.
If you or someone you know wants to be added to stay up-to-date with the latest news scan the QR code or click on this web address, Redcap Listserv, and enter this code: 4EW883FJL.
Stay Tuned For Our Next Newsletter
Firefighter Wellness Summit Information
FRST Center Spotlights
SDState School of Health and Human Sciences, 1060 Campanile Ave., Box 2275A, Brookings, SD 57007
