O2X Specialist Updates
Updates from On-site
Our science-backed human performance development programs are delivered through in-person training, virtual resources, assessments, and analysis, but additionally, O2X has helped numerous agencies fill full-time human performance positions within their organizations, designed to improve the mental, physical, and emotional health of its members.
Check out what some of our On-site Specialists have been up to below, and check out https://www.o2x.com/programs/ to learn more about this unique O2X service.
Massachusetts Army National Guard (MAANG) Update from Devon Smith, O2X Strength and Conditioning Specialist:
June has been another productive month within the Massachusetts National Guard as we progress into the summer season. This month we hosted a total of four training and education workshops, working with our Soldiers and Airmen to provide them with the tools they need to succeed as tactical athletes. The Warrior FIT and O2X team reassessed Soldiers from the previous years’ workshops and brought back our second cohort for their second two-day event. The Soldiers’ body composition, injury risk, and overall wellness was assessed using the O2X Readiness Assessment, and attendees were provided a detailed report with their results and individualized recommendations. Our second cohort of Soldiers received education on sleep and fatigue management, which included an in depth review of proper technique for ACFT events. We spent time with these tactical athletes teaching movement efficiency using standardized ACFT equipment. A second cohort of Airmen joined us from the 104th Fighter Wing for their first of two workshops. This first workshop focused on providing our Airmen with a holistic understanding of what it takes to optimize human performance using the EAT SWEAT THRIVE methodology.
Massachusetts National Guard (MANG) Update from Gianna Roma, O2X Nutrition Specialist:
June has again been a very busy and productive month for the MA National Guard. Airmen from the 104th fighter wing received one of two workshops, while soldiers returned for their second cohort. I had the opportunity to present to both groups on nutrition, which was well received. Both groups have been eager to meet for 1 on 1 consultations, so I have been plugging away at meeting both Airmen and Soldiers for these. Many are also meeting with me for monthly follow-ups after the previous workshop with great success in diet changes and exercise. In total, over the month of June, I have met 1 on 1 with a total of 28 service members for consultations. Additionally, we continue to provide ongoing education – this month a flyer on hydration was posted on Warrior Fit Facebook page.
Frederick County Update from Kayla Schmit, On-site Specialist with Frederick Co. Fire Department:
June has been a busy month, and it’s just the start to a busy summer here in Frederick. In the beginning of the month I opened up the first block of training sessions for all interested career staff to participate at HQ gym. These sessions are designed specifically based on the goals of the individuals. During these sessions we address any imbalances they may have and correct any form issues. We focus on correcting weaknesses and building on strength. It’s been great to see the excitement and participation thus far, and I look forward to the continued growth.
In addition to the in-house training sessions at HQ, I’ve had the opportunity to go around to a few firehouses and complete some workouts with them on air. I personally enjoy interacting with the firefighters and understanding what it is like to train in fire gear. I was able to participate in a training session with two crews, which consisted of wearing a SCBA and breathing down a whole 5500 psi cylinder while completing the training session.
DC Fire & EMS Updates from Ryan Glaize and Conner Freeland, On-site Specialist:
This June, O2X facilitated its first Fitness Challenge within the DC FEMS and saw exceptional results! The goal was to encourage firefighters to take an active role in creating positive change in their lives. This member-requested initiative spanned to each battalion and included both firefighters and civilians within the department. For 8 weeks, participants pushed themselves to exercise weekly, eat more nutritious meals, and build consistent healthy habits. Overall, there were 331 total pounds lost with a 9% average changed in body composition for all participants. Additionally, these members lost 3% body fat on average over the course of the challenge!
Recruit Class 395 becomes the first class to graduate from the Training Academy after completing 28 weeks of intensive training. These men and women completed weekly workouts that were built to make them more efficient and effective firefighters. This group saw a significant change in body composition and as a group dropped 145 lbs, gained over 50 lbs of muscle, and lost 4% body fat on average. After being asked how the experience went, a recruit extended some thanks to the program as a whole.
“Finishing this academy, I feel the most physically and mentally strong than I’ve ever been… I also feel I have the necessary foundation and tools to continue my fitness journey and keep my mind and body in shape for the duration of my career.”
Arlington County Update from Trevor Sheasley, On-site Specialist with Arlington County Fire Department:
June has been the busiest month to date. With the summer months upon us, the Firefighters at Arlington County Fire Department (ACFD) are not only working hard to serve the people of the county, but better themselves. From May to June there was a 20% jump in group training requests that has led to standing appointments with two fire stations in the county. For those that have not felt comfortable or ready to join in the group sessions, I have made myself available to them for one on one coaching. These sessions are often done in conjunction with personalized training programs that typically deal with underlying reasons for the member not training with the group (eg. undiagnosed pains, movement inexperience etc).
Outside of the stations I have begun working with the Fire Training Academy cadre on implementing a strength and conditioning program for Recruit Class 80. With a class of 28 personnel we are bound to have a wide range of training backgrounds and fitness levels. The goal of the program is to make it something that is overall challenging for the fittest individual, while still being approachable for the novice. Our program instills the EAT SWEAT THRIVE model, with two dedicated conditioning days, two strength training days, and a day dedicated solely to yoga/recovery. The hopes are these training sessions are something the Recruits feel they get to do versus have to do, leading to a more positive relationship with physical training.
