Spring 2022, I was training clients on the basketball court in McComb Park. My TRX was hanging, a basketball, weights, kettlebells, hula hoops and a step were set up in stations on one side. I heard some ruckus and down the stairs came the first responders from Ambulance/Engine 28 and Truck 14 from Cleveland Park Firehouse. They introduced themselves and asked about what we were doing. I explained I was a trainer and encouraged them to try the equipment. They took turns with the hula hoops, then proceeded to play a hard game of basketball. Before leaving, one of them inquired if I taught yoga. As it is my specialty, Yoga at the Firehouse was born.

 

This volunteer teaching experience has given me new insight into what it takes to perform the vital role of First Responder. Much more than just the physical fitness challenge, it also takes mental clarity, spiritual and emotional strength, patience, and courage.

 

Picture yourself fast asleep only to be awakened by a loud alarm and flashing lights alerting you to a fire. Without pause, you’re out of your bunk, sliding down the fire pole, dressing in heavy gear and taking your place as the driver, passengers, tiller-man of Truck 14 or Engine and Ambulance 28. With sirens blaring you exit the firehouse, quickly yet safely navigating the streets, and arrive at your destination not knowing what to expect. Staying calm and focused is the number one survival skill. Having the ability to assess the scene is essential - it may require ladders and hoses; you may need to climb many flights of stairs with smoke and low visibility, locating and possibly carrying or dragging people of all ages, weight and sizes, back down stairs or ladders many stories high.

 

To qualify to be a firefighter there are eight tasks involved in the firefighter fitness test: a 75lbs. weighted stair climb, hose drag, equipment carry, ladder raise and extension, forcible entry using a 10lbs. sledgehammer, a search portion that involves crawling at least 70 feet, a rescue portion that involves dragging a 165-pound mannequin, and the ceiling breach and pull. All of these must be successfully completed in 10 minutes, 20 seconds.

 

Different challenges may arise after years of being under extreme recurring occupational stress. The mental toll of dealing with trauma and suffering encountered on the job can put the first responders at risk for PTSD and depression. The impact on one’s health and personal life can’t be overstated. Our first responders also work 24-hour shifts twice a week and get interrupted sleep which impacts their health. They work with chemicals that can be toxic with over-exposure. Many DC First Responders drive 90+ miles to work. This makes maintaining a regular schedule of wellness difficult.

 

DC Fire/EMS has contracted O2XHuman Performance - an organization focused on tactical athletes - which is committed to optimizing First Responders’ physical, mental and emotional health, increasing their ability to stay strong and resilient. O2X offers guidance regarding fitness assessment, training, nutrition, teamwork and stress management. They have a specialist on site at the academy, nutritionist, and an app with workout programs and the ability to connect directly with the O2X team.

 

Firehouse mealtime is a vital component in building teamwork. Considering their schedules, nutrition/meal planning may be one of the biggest challenges. Tiffany, the O2X nutritionist, has worked with the firehouse by preparing dinner to demonstrate how to make healthy food that tastes delicious. Shopping, cooking, and eating together helps them build deeper relationships.

 

Each responder approaches their wellbeing differently while addressing the 5 components of fitness: strength and endurance training, cardiovascular exercise, mobility, flexibility and stress management. Some participate in yoga class to meet these goals. It’s psychologically vital for each individual to have outside interests that connect them to their family and friends like going to church, relaxing at the beach, hunting, playing softball, snowboarding and traveling.

 

These men and women serve our community with grace, selflessly putting their lives on the line. I have much faith, gratitude, and respect for their commitment to community service.