Jorge Rodriguez, owner of International Bodyworks Fitness, talks to Grattan fire fighters about the importance of being fit.
In celebration of National Fire Fighters Health Week–August 14-20
Grattan Township Fire Department is an all volunteer department led by Fire Chief Lou Kirkbride. The men and women volunteers give of their time freely in the call of duty. It is very important for them to be fit to serve their community and be fit for themselves. Fighting a fire demands physical strength and energy. Getting fit and remaining fit can be a challenge.
50 percent of all firefighter line of duty deaths result in heart attacks and strokes.
“It’s all about being in the right place at the right time,” says Safety Officer Art Ward. Art along with his wife Ann, Deputy Chief, were concerned with their fitness and began working out with personal trainer Jorge Rodriguez, owner of International Bodyworks Fitness in Cannon Township. In conversation on the need to be physically fit and have the stamina it takes to perform in the line of duty, Jorge had a plan that would help these 26 firefighters achieve their goals, by donating to a complete circuit training gym to the department.
The equipment is designed to provide a complete workout in just 20 to 30 minutes a day.
On Tuesday evening, August 2, Captain George Smith III introduced Rodriguez with the statement “Safety starts with personal fitness.” Jorge gave a presentation to motivate and inspire them on the importance of health and fitness. “It is very important for them to be fit in order to serve their community and also be fit for themselves,” stated Jorge. He also gave a demonstration on how to properly use the equipment to achieve maximum results.
The building that houses the fire department is owned by Grattan Township. “It is very important that people know the township allows us to use this wonderful facility,” stated Ward.
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