Washington State firefighter, Tom Corrigan, has designed a unique kettlebell-based exercise program, 'KB Fire: Kettlebell Training for Firefighters', that promises to dramatically reduce firefighter injuries, potentially extending or saving their careers, while saving the nation millions a year in unnecessary medical expenses.
The NFPA (National Fire Protection Association) estimates that 80,100 firefighter injuries occurred in the line of duty in 2005. The leading type of injury received during fireground operations was strain, sprain or muscular pain (44.4% -Firefighter Injuries in the United States, Michael J. Karter, Jr. & Joseph L. Molis, October 2006).
In 2005, a total of 87 on duty firefighter deaths occurred in the U.S. 40 (46%) were classified as sudden cardiac deaths.
A member of the Everett Fire Department since 1994, veteran firefighter Tom Corrigan was determined to research and develop a fitness program for firefighters that would improve both their strength, conditioning and overall physical resilience.
The breakthrough for Corrigan came with his discovery of the Russian Kettlebell exercise training system as taught by Pavel Tsatsouline and published through Dragon Door Publications.
After becoming certified himself as an RKC, or certified kettlebell instructor, Tom Corrigan saw significant changes in his physical ability to fight fires. Corrigan created his KB Fire training DVD to help not only firefighters be safer by being being stronger and better conditioned, but also those from any other profession engaged in physically demanding labor.
Corrigan's fellow firefighters have been more than enthusiastic about KB Fire:
"I feel like I am cheating my brother and sister Firefighters by not sharing KB Fire with them right away. My department has recently suffered an epidemic of career ending 'on the job' injuries - two shoulders, three backs, and one knee. I know the sections on posture combined with Tom's creative job specific uses of the kettlebell can prevent many of these injuries. KB Fire not only helps to correct poor movement patterns but it also shows you how to toughen yourself to further prevent those injuries. The tips on CPR have already paid off on the job. I was able to get as good or better compressions done without getting that pump in my lower back that is soon followed by an ache.
As I began to share portions of KB Fire with fellow firefighters they were immediately impressed with Tom's ability as an instructor as well as the quality of his physique. Tom puts out what you need to know and then shows you exactly what he told you with great demonstrations. Our training officer loved the graphics superimposed over Tom to reinforce good mechanics.
Brother, this DVD will surely save lives as well as careers when KB Fire gets out to the fire service at large!" - Matthew Burleson
"I have been a firefighter/EMT for approximately ten years and have utilized numerous workout regimens over that time, but none as effective as kettlebells. I have waited patiently for a program specifically geared toward firefighters and our unique duties... and now it is here. While I already had a firm grasp on the basics of kettlebell exercises, your DVD had some very good ideas for improving strength and endurance in specific areas and tasks found on the fire scene. I'm 42 years old now and without a doubt in the best shape of my life... all due to kettlebells! I truly believe any firefighter or other public safety worker could benefit from your DVD and the ideas contained within. Great job and stay safe." - David Verduin, Anchorage Fire Dept.
For more information on KB Fire: Kettlebell Training, click here.