MFRD launches new fitness and nutrition program

The Murfreesboro Fire Rescue Department (MFRD) is strengthening its commitment to firefighter wellness through a new fitness and nutrition coaching program, developed in partnership with fuelED Nutrition Coaching and Volunteer Physical Therapy and Performance. The initiative is funded in part by a $357,637 federal Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG).

This wellness program includes nutrition education and coaching, exercise equipment, fitness trainers, and peer support counseling, intending to improve the health, safety, and performance of MFRD’s firefighters.

Firefighting is one of the most physically and mentally demanding careers. Firefighters must operate in high-stress situations, often while carrying heavy gear and performing strenuous tasks. MFRD recognizes that to protect the community effectively, firefighters must first take care of their health.

“Our firefighters are athletes in every sense of the word,” said Assistant Chief Josh Oliver. “They perform under intense pressure, wear heavy gear, and respond to high-stress emergencies. Their nutrition and fitness need to match the physical demands of this career, and that is where fuelED comes in.”

Nutrition Coaching with fuelED

fuelED provides personalized coaching for employee wellness programs and active professionals. Through MFRD’s partnership, firefighters benefit from:

• Individualized nutrition coaching tailored to each firefighter’s schedule, goals, and health needs.
• Custom meal plans accommodate irregular shifts and high-calorie demands.
• Education on performance fueling to support energy, strength, and recovery.
• Support for specific health challenges, including fatigue, GI issues, and injury recovery.

Firefighters can burn up to 6,000 calories per shift, particularly during structure fires or extended rescue operations. Proper nutrition is essential not only for achieving peak performance but also for maintaining long-term health and preventing injuries.

“Proper nutrition helps firefighters perform better, recover faster, and reduce their risk of chronic illness and injury,” said Oliver. “It’s not just about what happens at the gym or on a call—it’s about what they eat, how they sleep, and how they care for their bodies overall.”

The program also aims to combat common firefighter health risks such as cancer, cardiovascular disease, and obesity—all of which have been linked to poor nutrition and lifestyle habits.

Rehabilitation and Performance with Volunteer Physical Therapy

In addition, MFRD partnered with Volunteer Physical Therapy and Performance, which provides specialized rehabilitation and performance care for firefighters and active adults.

Physical therapy is a critical component of firefighter wellness, addressing issues such as:

• Strains, sprains, and soft tissue injuries
• Chronic back, neck, ankle, and foot pain
• Strength, flexibility, and range of motion improvement
• Cardiovascular fitness and job-specific mobility training
• Pain management and injury prevention education

By combining nutrition coaching and physical therapy with peer support and fitness resources, MFRD’s program provides a comprehensive approach to firefighter wellness.

“This program is an investment in their lives, their careers, and the safety of our community,” said Oliver. “Our goal is to support the whole firefighter—body and mind.”

With the backing of the federal AFG grant and strong community partnerships, MFRD is leading the way in prioritizing firefighter health and readiness.