Super Bowl Readiness

As we approach Super Bowl LX—now just about a month away—we all recognize the significant operational lift ahead of us. Extended shifts, long days on our feet, heightened vigilance, and time away from home will be the norm. Because of that, wellness, resilience, and recovery are not optional—they are mission-critical.

While recovery after the event is essential, I want to emphasize an important truth: resilience is built before the deployment, not just after it. If we are not intentional, it’s easy to think of recovery as something we deal with once the event is over. In reality, how well we recover physically, mentally, and relationally is strongly influenced by how we prepare beforehand.

It may be helpful to think of resilience like a bank account. Super Bowl operations will require a major withdrawal. The more deposits we make now, the easier recovery will be afterward. If we fail to make deposits, we may find ourselves running a deficit once the mission is complete.

Below are a few reminders—things you already know, but worth revisiting as we prepare.

Physical Readiness

• Consistent preparation improves endurance, decision-making, and injury prevention during extended operations.

• Expect more walking, standing, gear weight, and long hours.

• To prepare:

• Prioritize sleep now—protect your rest like an appointment

• Increase hydration (start building the habit before long shifts begin)

• Eat protein-rich, low-sugar meals to sustain energy

• Work out 3–4 times per week with a focus on strength and mobility

• Increase stretching—Flexibility increases longevity and decreases injuries

Relational Readiness

• Major events don’t just impact the first responder—they impact the family.

• Making relational deposits before the event helps prevent relationship strain afterward.

• When possible, celebrate important family moments ahead of time rather than postponing them.

• Start communicating expectations now so family members understand the schedule and demands and aren’t caught off guard.

• Have a simple plan to stay connected—texts, short calls, FaceTime—small efforts go a long way in maintaining connection.

Recovery Planning

• While you are fresh, begin planning recovery time and activities for yourself and/or your family after the Super Bowl.

• Recovery isn’t a luxury—it’s how we sustain long-term performance and health.

This list is by no means exhaustive.   If you come up with other ways to prepare please share it with everyone you can.  I would love to hear what you are doing to prepare.

None of this is complicated, but it does require intentionality. Plan to be well. Pay attention to what works and what doesn’t so we can adjust—not only for this event, but for future large-scale operations ahead.  

Thank you for your professionalism, commitment, and the sacrifices you and your families make in service to our community.

Be Well