Program Overview

The Fitness program’s purpose is to provide adjunct support to the District’s wellness program by focusing on three key areas: physical fitness training and education, Individual member support and guidance, as well as research, purchasing, maintenance, and repair of the District's fitness equipment. The program recognizes that research has demonstrated the need for high levels of aerobic fitness, muscular endurance, muscular strength, muscular power, and flexibility to perform safely and effectively in fulfilling our mission of providing emergency services to the communities we serve.

Management Oversight

The Fitness program is directed by the Division Chief of Operation with oversight authority delegated to the Battalion Chief and program coordinator. This program does not have any full-time equivalent employees. This program contains the expenses pertaining to general fitness supplies and equipment purchases, maintenance and repair services, and overtime for training and program administration.

Program Objectives

• Regularly review and update the fitness equipment inventory, ensuring that all items are properly recorded. Replace aging or damaged equipment promptly to ensure the fitness facilities are fully operational and safe for use.
• Design and implement a comprehensive yearly fitness program tailored to the needs of our members. This program will include fitness assessments, structured training routines, and goal-setting to enhance overall physical health and performance.
• Offer personalized fitness evaluations, feedback, and coaching to members, helping them improve their physical fitness, meet individual goals, and maintain peak performance levels.
• Continuously track the progress of members through regular evaluations, adjusting fitness plans as needed to ensure ongoing improvement and address any specific physical challenges or needs.
• Manage the routine maintenance, servicing, and repairs of all fitness equipment to ensure it remains in good working condition. Schedule regular inspections and address any issues promptly to avoid downtime and maintain a safe environment.

FY 2024-25 Accomplishments

• Successfully integrated the department's fitness program into the newly established Wellness Committee to support holistic health initiatives.

• Continued ongoing efforts to identify and replace outdated or non-functional fitness and wellness equipment.

• Oversaw maintenance and repair of existing equipment to ensure continued usability and safety.

FY 2025-26 Program Initiatives

• Reintroduce a fitness-specific assessment separate from the wellness committee training.
• Collaborate with the HQ crew to update their gym, which sees the highest usage due to its accessibility to both firefighters and administrative personnel.
• Continue enhancing fitness education for the workforce.
• Continue updating and replacing large equipment (e.g., cardio machines), addressing both outdated units and opportunities to introduce more efficient and safer alternatives.