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. As we start the new year, this month’s newsletter includes an update from the National Strength and Conditioning Association Conference, details about the New Year’s Strength Challenge, stress management resources, and winter wellness nutrition tips. Thank you for joining us — we’re excited to kick off the year with you!
NSCA Conference
Allison Barry, PhD, Principal Investigator of the FRST Center; Marni Shoemaker, PhD, FRST Center Dietitian; and Seth Daughters, FRST Center Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist, attended the South Dakota and North Dakota National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA) Conference alongside exercise science students and other professionals in the field. Nate Dicks, PhD, a 26-year veteran (pictured below), shared his expertise from his research with tactical populations, including firefighters, law enforcement, and military personnel.
His presentation, titled “Bridging the Gap Between Research and Practice in Tactical Strength, Wellness, and Performance,” highlighted how evidence-based research can be effectively applied in real-world tactical settings. This conference provided an important learning opportunity for individuals in the fields of exercise science and strength and conditioning, helping them better understand how their work can positively impact the tactical populations who serve our communities every day.
New Year, New Strength Challenge
The FRST Center Lab is excited to introduce the New Year’s Strength Challenge, a department-based competition designed to bring South Dakota fire departments together through strength-focused workouts that require minimal equipment, time, and space. Beginning February 1, this challenge promotes teamwork and friendly competition between departments, with prizes awarded to top-performing teams. This form is intended to collect interest and contact information only and does not serve as official registration.
Additional details and official registration instructions will be sent prior to the February 1 start date. To express interest, please scan the QR code above or visit the link, Strength Challenge Interest and enter the code: EDPHYADTF
Stress Management Tips
Take time to decompress from the holidays and prioritize your well-being. South Dakota State University Assistant Professor, Dakota Witzel, PhD, focuses her research on healthy aging, daily stress processes, and mental health. Check out the flyer for helpful resources and reminders on managing stress after the holiday season, provided by Dr. Witzel.
FRST Center Dietitian Marni Shoemaker, PhD, focuses this month’s nutrition column on immune support for the start of the year. The featured nutrition flyer explores key topics such as vitamin C, protein, antioxidants, anti-inflammatory foods, vitamin D, supplements, and includes an easy Sheet Pan Beef and Veggie Stir-Fry recipe.
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 the code: 4EW883FJL.
Stay Tuned For Our Next Newsletter
FRST Center Strength Challenge
Nutrition Resources
Meet the FRST Center's Newest Lab Team Members
SDState School of Health and Human Sciences, 1060 Campanile Ave., Box 2275A, Brookings, SD 57007
