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 are excited to highlight our FRST Center Wellness Testing, showcase a first responder in the field, and share some insights into nutritious, delicious summer foods!Thank you for joining us this month -- we are excited to have you here!
FRST Center Wellness Testing
This past month, the FRST Center team conducted wellness testing with volunteer firefighters and police officersthrough a contract with the City of Brookings. Participants first completed a basic health assessment that included measurements such as height, weight, body composition, blood pressure, grip strength, and waist circumference. From there, they participated in a strength assessment, where they completed a three rep max for both the deadlift and bench press. Participants also met with our nutrition team to discuss their eating habits and nutrition practices. Lastly, volunteers completed a VO2 max test to assess their cardiovascular fitness. We will use this information to better understand the health and wellness needs of firefighters and law enforcement officers across the state. Our goal is to provide resources, education, and support that help promote the health and wellbeing of the hardworking individuals who serve communities throughout South Dakota.
FRST Center Wellness Testing: Strength Session
The strength portion of our wellness assessment focused on helping participants learn more about their current strength levels. Participants began with a structured warm up designed to prepare their muscles and joints for lifting. They then completed a series of lighter warm up sets for both the bench press and deadlift before working toward a three rep max in each lift. The testing protocol, warm up progression, and lift sequencing were developed by Seth Daughters to help ensure a safe and effective testing experience. Research Assistants Brett Deschler and Alex Pudwill provided guidance on proper lifting technique and served as spotters throughout the assessment. This information will help us better understand the strength profiles of firefighters and law enforcement officers across South Dakota and support future wellness initiatives.
FRST Center Wellness Testing: Nutrition Session
"The nutrition component of our wellness assessment focuses on understanding participants' usual dietary habits and identifying opportunities to support overall health and performance. After completing a 3-day food record, each firefighter will meet individually with a registered dietitian to review their food intake and discuss their eating patterns. This information will be analyzed to create a personalized nutrition profile, allowing us to identify strengths, nutrient gaps, and areas for improvement. Participants will receive individualized feedback and practical recommendations to help optimize nutrition for health, recovery, and performance both on and off the job." - Megan Northrup, RD, LN; Research assistants, Erin Unzen & Kenzie Thompson
FRST Center Wellness Testing: VO2 Max Test
The VO₂ max portion of our wellness assessment focused on helping participants learn more about their cardiovascular fitness. Participants could choose between a walking or running protocol based on their comfort level. The walking test maintained a consistent speed while the incline gradually increased, whereas the running test increased speed throughout the assessment. Before testing, participants completed a questionnaire about their physical activity habits and exercise background to help determine an individualized testing protocol. Individuals are asked to go until they have reached their maximal capacity, which allows the FRST team to assess their cardiorespiratory fitness.Dr. Nathan Dicks along with Dr. Allison Barry,developed the testing protocols and individualized calculations used throughout the assessment, and oversaw the testing process. Research Assistants Ally Abraham, Kayla Neugebauer, and Ella Wieland assisted in a variety of roles throughout the testing process. By learning more about the cardiovascular fitness of our participants, we can continue providing resources and education that support the health and wellbeing of first responders throughout South Dakota.
FRST Center Wellness Testing Thank You!
We would like to extend a sincere thank you to all of the firefighters, law enforcement officers, and department leaders who volunteered their time to participate in our wellness testing this summer. We know how busy your schedules are, and we are incredibly grateful that you chose to spend a few hours with our team. Thank you for trusting us throughout the process and for helping us better understand the health and wellness needs of first responders across South Dakota. Your participation makes this work possible, and we truly appreciate your commitment to improving the wellbeing of the fire and law enforcement communities. Most importantly, thank you for the work you do each and every day to serve and protect communities across our state.
FRST Responder in the Field Spotlight
“Participating in this research has been meaningful because it helped me see wellness as more than just exercise; it is something that affects every part of life. Through the process, I was able to me understand where I was at in my fitness journey and focus on where I would like to go. It has helped me stay more intentional with working out, taking care of myself, and setting a positive example for those around me. I see wellness as an ongoing commitment, not just a short-term goal, and I am grateful for the role this experience played in helping me continue that progress.” - Lt. Jonathan Weinrich
Stars, Stripes, and Healthy Bites
Summer is officially here! Check out this month's nutrition flyer for a few simple ways to stay fueled during the busy summer months. Inside you'll find summer cookout tips, hydration reminders, food safety recommendations, and a festive red, white, and blue parfait recipe. We hope these quick tips help you enjoy the season while staying healthy, hydrated, and ready for the job!
The National Firefighter Registry for Cancer (NFRC) is leading the way for improvements in understanding the underlying mechanisms and creating ways to reduce incidence of cancer. The NFRC can only do this with your help. During the registration process, you will be asked about your fire history and exposures. The upper Midwest has some of the lowest participation rates for the registry, but I think we can change that! If you have not yet registered, there is still time to get involved and make a difference. Below you will find even more reasons to register.
By joining the NFRC, you can:
• Help protect your brothers and sisters in the fire service from developing cancer • Lessen the impact of cancer on firefighters' families and friends • Pave the way for new health and safety measures for future firefighters • Improve understanding of cancer risk among firefighters historically underrepresented in research
Don't hesitate to reach out if you have any questions or if there are ways the FRST Center can help your department.
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
2027 Spring Wellness Symposium
Collaborator Spotlight
SDState School of Health and Human Sciences, 1060 Campanile Ave., Box 2275A, Brookings, SD 57007
