A new collaboration between Mayo Clinic Health System and the La Crosse Fire Department is aimed at improving each firefighter’s strength and well being.
As part of the program, a Mayo Clinic athletic trainer, research scientist and physician, all of whom are affiliated with the health system’s sports medicine department, will conduct tests to assess the strength, speed and endurance of La Crosse firefighters in order to pinpoint areas of improvement. Joel Luedke is an athletic trainer and strength and conditioning coach with Mayo Clinic Health System. He said the program seeks to try and “reduce aches and pains” and the risk of injury for firefighters.
Luedke said that part of the program treats firefighters like tactical athletes who are trying to reach their peak performance.