Should the ff or the department pay?

Should the firefighter or the department pay for the cost to exercise at a local gym? We do not have a gym in either of our 3 stations and some members beleive the department should pay the cost at a local gym. I feel it should be a 50/50 split this way it makes the ff feel like he better go because he's got some of his own cost involved and if the department pays the whole thing then it'll be one of those well I'll start tomorrow and it never happens. What do you all think or does your department have something setup like this? As a department we're kinda mixed and dont know what way to go. So any advise would be great.

Thanks, TJ

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Permalink Reply by Cody Baker on March 18, 2009 at 1:29pm

I honestly think that it should be the FF because the Department has to stick to their budget and with paying just to work out its taking money away from what it could be being spent on such as supplies for the Ambulances, Hoses and Repairs for the Trucks, Lights, etc. The FF needs to pay to get him/herself into shape.

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Permalink Reply by Glenn.D.C_15 on March 18, 2009 at 1:42pm

We were trying to get one of the local gyms to give us a discount, but nothing ever came of it.

I don't think you can expect the Department to pay 100% for something like this. It might be incentive for some to go, but the obvious comes up, if they pay for someone, and that person doesn't or very rarely goes, then the department is at a loss.
I'd say go half and half, or get the chief to talk to one of the gyms and try to get them to cut you guys a deal.

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Permalink Reply by T.J. on March 18, 2009 at 1:55pm

We're attemting to get a discount right now with our local gyms so we'll see.

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Permalink Reply by T.J. on March 18, 2009 at 1:56pm

Very true, it was not the fire department that got you out of shape.

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Permalink Reply by Pete on March 18, 2009 at 2:32pm

I believe the department should absorb the cost. Our health and well being is worth the cost, and just as important as the hose, isn't it? I would try and strike a deal with the local gym to negotiate something, if there are mutual aid companies near by, ask them to join with you, something about strength in numbers. This may also be one of those political fights we need to take on (again) and have the local government, or state step in and assist. A gym membership is far lest costly than a workers comp case or LODD. In 30 years of doing this, it seems you always have to work for some cause. We have improved breathing air, top notch gear, pass devices, TIC, GPS, accountability systems, all because we wanted it (and needed it)

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Permalink Reply by DOWNS290 on March 18, 2009 at 2:40pm

IF I AM NOT MISTAKEN YOU CAN PAY FOR THE GYM MEMBERSHIP OUT OF THE RELIEF ASSOCIATION FUNDS. I AM NOT 100% SURE SO CHECK WITH YOUR RELIEF PRESIDENT. I ALSO THINK YOU CAN TAKE THAT OUT OF THE ONE OF THE GRANTS LIKE THE SAFER OR AFG GRANT

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Permalink Reply by Tom on March 18, 2009 at 2:51pm

Rather than paying a gym any money, Why not try to get the fire company to buy equipment to be used. This allows for the firefighter to get into/stay in shape while still being around to answer any calls that may come in. The startup cost is high but then it is only maintenance costs after that. The company I am a member at has a very well equipped gym at one of our four stations.

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Permalink Reply by Cody Baker on March 18, 2009 at 2:54pm

Exactly... See why not just pay or get your commissioner of your county to get you a grant to get the work out equipment. Or check into your local Police Department and see about working out with their gym.

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Permalink Reply by MInnFIrefighter on March 18, 2009 at 3:41pm

Running, pushups, pull ups, sit ups, chopping wood, lifting bricks..... all FREE

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Permalink Reply by Cody Baker on March 18, 2009 at 3:44pm

That works too... I forgot to mention that...

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Permalink Reply by John Rulli Jr. on March 18, 2009 at 4:01pm

See if you can get a group discount. I don't think the dept should pay

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Permalink Reply by Chad Furr on March 18, 2009 at 5:30pm

Check with your local school. Most High schools now have really nice gym and workout equipment. May have to schedule it around school use but here thye let us use it when we basiclally wnat (no class activly using it) After all you are a tax payer in the distric and schools are public buildings, plus they kinda like the idea they have fireman on scene most of the time. Check it out what will it hurt?