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 Mark Bandy.
Q: What is your EMS job?
I am a full time educator and trainer for Mid Georgia Ambulance in Macon, GA. I have 10 years of full time EMS experience and still ride the road monthly. I am currently working on revising my state’s protocols and working closely with Dr. Broselow in implementing the eBroselow system throughout the state.
Q: What are your athletic pursuits and goals?
I would like to be more healthy for my wife, son, and my twins on the way.
Q: What race, fitness, or lifestyle accomplishments are you particularly proud of?
I am a big guy (6’4″ and 320lbs) and if you see me running you better start running in the same direction. I have been motivated by my coworkers to get out and walk the 5k events in the area. I have been averaging a 5k a month.
Q: What are your health and fitness tips for other EMS professionals?
Like a good friend said to me, “When you get walking/running, you are moving faster that the people at home on the couch.”
We need to be willing to move outside of our comfort zone. Get up and go or you will be seeing your EMS colleagues early in your retirement when they are called out to you.
Q: Are there organizations that you support that share your fitness goals?
Our Mid Georgia Ambulance Run/Walk team is called “Run For Your Life” more information about MGA can be found at www.midgeorgiaambulance.comQ: Is there anything else you would like to share?
Connect with me and the Run For Your Life team at Mid Georgia Ambulance on Facebook.
All Everyday EMS Athletes featured in this column receive an e-gift card from Road ID. Check out the Road ID information for First Responders. View past columns and submit yourprofile at the Everyday EMS Athlete page.
