Book excerpt: The Ladder 2 Workout was developed to give Firefighters, EMTs and Paramedics (FireRescue Athletes) a revolutionary new fitness system that will reduce the risk of injury, increase strength, decrease body fat and insure that you are always "fit for duty." This program is 15 years in the making and is endorsed by hundreds of firefighters, paramedics, and elite trainers. The Ladder 2 Workout contains all of the information you need to get "fit for duty." It includes specifically designed strength/power workouts, cardiovascular interval workouts, fitness tips, exercise descriptions and pictures, along with eating guidelines. If you've been training sparingly or need to get back into shape, this program is for you. If you've been doing the traditional bodybuilding/ body part training (which doesn't really apply to firefighting skills), then this program is for you. Maybe you've been following other fitness programs and have noticed that your efforts haven't transferred to the fireground, then...this program is for you. Essentially this program is for any FireRescue Athlete that wants to improve their level of fitness, reduce chances of injury (especially shoulder and back), get stronger and get leaner.