EMS professionals are challenged to balance work, family, and other obligations while also staying or striving for mental and physical fitness. The Everyday EMS Athlete is a regular column to recognize and learn from other EMS professionals that are setting and meeting fitness goals. This edition was contributed by paramedic and educator Bill Kanoff.
Q: What is your EMS job?
I’ve been in EMS since 1977. I have served as a paramedic on the ground and in the air. I also spent 12 years as a Special Forces Medic in the Army. I have worked my way up the chain of command from staff medic to chief, and have even served several years as an EMS Academy Director.
My current role is as a staff paramedic, FTO and EMS Educator with a private service provider in Pennsylvania.
Q: What are your athletic pursuits and goals?
Q: Do you have a race or accomplishments you are particularly proud of?
I am proud of the fact that my return to running, at age 51, has gotten me back into a decent physical shape and has allowed me to drop approximately 40 pounds in a little over two months. I am eating better, feeling much better and it makes life on the job much easier.
Q: What are your tips for other EMS professionals to balance work and fitness?
Everybody is different. Wanting to get fit is 98% mental. Yes, it will hurt physically, but you must get it into your head, set your goals and don’t let anything get in your way. Do it for you! Don’t let anybody get in your way.
