Top paramedic blogger Bryan Fass wants you to shape up. But you don’t have to go at it alone: He’s created a specialized workout program just for EMTs.

After 12 years of clinical sports medicine and spine rehabilitation, Mr. Fass made the move to personal fitness using his experience as a paramedic to write Fit Responder. Released in August, the book outlines a fitness regime specifically tailored for public safety individuals.

What inspired you to create the Fit Responder program?

It came about because I could no longer sit quietly aside while watching coworkers bodies deteriorate and fail from lack of care, improper exercise and over/under use. As a clinical athletic trainer and rehabilitation specialist and as a paramedic, I not only watched the injuries occur, but I rehabilitated them as well.

Do you find that a good percentage of paramedics are out of shape (just like the rest of us!)?

Unfortunately most EMTs are severely out of shape physically and are obese as well. Stress, long hours, poor food, altered sleep patterns and lack of exercise are factors.

What’s the difference between your workout program and, say, a cardio-focused routine like that Richard Simons’ classic Sweatin’ to the Oldies?

The Fit Responder program is a ‘ground up’ program, build a stable base and adequate flexibility first, strength second. Injury prevention and postural stabilization are the core components of this program. What most responders assume are good exercises can actually be hurting you! All the exercises included are safe, effective easy to do on duty. I also incorporate nutrition with a food journal, food substitution table, stress management and self massage.

If there was one thing you could convince those in the public safety industry to do health-wise, what would that be?

I wish everyone in public safety would follow the principles in the Fit Responder. To do a few simple stretches daily, self massage a few times per week, learn to how ‘stiffen you spine,’ and follow a simple fitness and wellness program your chances of surviving your career increase tenfold. The key is to stay injury free and have sound wellness.

What’s next for you?

My main goal is to continue to elicit change and increase awareness nationally and beyond. EMS needs a fitness standard, and public safety needs to incorporate injury prevention along with job specific fitness. These two issues are my driving force going forward.

You can purchase Fit Responder for $39.95 at Amazon.com