HEWman Heroes: The first responders of hew
First responders hold a special place in our hearts at HEW Fitness, and we take pride in recognizing their service to our communities.
Let’s take a moment to honor the many law enforcement officers, firefighters, paramedics, and EMTs right here in our own HEW family.
While every HEWman benefits from our fitness routine - a combination of high-intensity strength and endurance training - perhaps no one feels those benefits in their daily jobs quite like our first responders. Their job requires them to be ready at any moment for the worst-case scenario, and HEW Fitness prepares them for just that.
Firefighter and HEW Palm Beach Gardens owner Nick Perry says, “Staying physically fit is a huge part of our job and our daily lives. HEW challenges me every day to push my limits and surpass my goals. When I’m needed to respond to an emergency, I know that I am ready to perform at my best to be able to be there for someone at their worst.”
While our metabolically potent cocktail of tire flips, rope climbs, pull-ups, kettlebell swings, and more is instrumental in meeting the physical demands of a first responder’s job, the benefits of HEW Fitness go far beyond the workout itself. Our Foundational Fitness movement builds comprehensive physical, mental, and spiritual strength - all of which are needed to prepare first responders for on-the-job stress, long shifts, and the emotional impact of their work.
Glenn, a SWAT officer and member in Orlando, says that without HEW, he doesn’t know how he’d handle the stress of his job. “I’m grateful to have this place. After my hardest days on shift, I know I can come here to relieve stress rather than taking it home with me. Between my team at work, my family, and this gym, I have an incredible support system that makes it possible for me to do what I need to do.”
For many of our first responders, their service to others doesn’t stop at their job. Tony, a firefighter who is also a member of HEW Palm Beach Gardens, recently embarked on a 1,700-mile cycling ride from Naples, Florida, to New York City. The Brotherhood Ride will honor the 20th anniversary of 9/11 while also honoring the first responders who have died from 9/11-related illnesses. Tony raised over $6,500 for the Brotherhood Ride, and HEW Fitness was instrumental in his training for the strenuous journey. When asked what HEW means to him, he responded, “HEW Fitness has been an integral part of my everyday life for the last 8+ years. I have worked out at many different gyms - but nothing compares to the community, workouts, and support that HEW offers. It’s more than a gym. It’s family.”
Tony Jerina
Boca Raton Fire Department (Florida)
To the first responders of HEW Fitness: thank you for your service. We’re honored to provide a system of support and encouragement for you while challenging you with every workout so you remain prepared for your work.
