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 share movement data from fire and police departments, wellness resources focused on strength and hydration, a special recognition of National Police Week, efforts supporting cancer awareness and research initiatives, and a glimpse into the FRST Center team. Thank you for joining us this month -- we are excited to have you here!
Honoring Our Law Enforcement Community
National Police Week was observed May 10th–17th, and we want to extend a heartfelt thank you to the members of our local police departments for their dedication, sacrifice, and service to our communities. We are incredibly grateful for the work law enforcement officers do each and every day to support and protect those around them. Thank you for the positive impact you continue to make both on and off the job.
Join the National Volunteer Fire Council's Step Strong Challenge!
Beginning June 1st, firefighters are invited to take part in the National Volunteer Fire Council's Step Strong Challenge. This challenge is a great opportunity to stay active, set personal goals, and enjoy some friendly competition with fellow first responders from across the country!
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! Below you will find even more reasons to register.
By joining the NFR, 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.
Physical Activity & Motivation Among First Responders
Recent FRST Center research, conducted in collaboration with Dr. Nathan Dicks from North Dakota State University, highlighted differences in daily physical activity among first responders. The findings suggest that leaders can play an important role in shaping the health and wellness culture within their departments.
Below is a guide on Repetitions in Reserve (RIR), a simple way to better understand workout intensity during strength training. This guide explains how RIR can help with choosing the right weight, improving strength, and getting the most out of workouts while still maintaining good form and movement quality. Whether your goal is building strength, improving endurance, or training smarter, RIR can be a valuable tool both in the gym and on the job!
Check out this quick overview focused on hydration, electrolytes, and simple ways to stay fueled during the summer months and long shifts. The information below highlights why hydration is so important for performance, recovery, and overall wellness while also sharing practical tips to help replenish electrolytes throughout the day. Whether on shift, training in the gym, or spending time in the heat, staying healthy, fueled, and ready for the job starts with proper hydration!
Left to Right: Megan Northrup, RD, LN; Dr. Allison Barry; Seth Daughters, MS, CSCS; and Dr. Dakota Witzel
FRST Center: Nutrition
Research Assistants, Erin Unzen (left) and Kenzie Thompson (right); Megan Northrup, RD, LN (middle)
FRST Center: Exercise Science
Left to Right: Research Assistants, Ella Danner, Brett Deschler, and Kayla Neugebauer; Seth Daughters, MS, CSCS; Dr. Allison Barry; Research Assistants, Ally Abraham, Ella Wieland, and Alex Pudwill
First Responders Support Training Center
Our new training center has already been such a valuable addition to the FRST Center Research, and we feel incredibly thankful to have a space and equipment that allows us to continue growing and reaching new heights! We are excited for all the ways this center will continue to promote movement, support wellness, and positively impact individuals for many years to come.
Center Website
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
First Responders in the Field
FRST Center Wellness Testing
SDState School of Health and Human Sciences, 1060 Campanile Ave., Box 2275A, Brookings, SD 57007
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