High Intensity Functional Training (HIFT) Improves Fitness in Recruit Firefighters

Abstract

Background: Firefighting is a strenuous profession requiring adequate levels of fitness for effective job performance. Providing firefighters with a safe and effective fitness program is essential for optimal performance. The purpose of this project was to examine changes in various parameters of physical fitness and firefighter ability following a 7-week high intensity functional training (HIFT) program. Methods: Participants were male firefighter recruits (N = 89; age = 27.1 ± 4.2 years, height = 1.78 ± 0.1 m, BMI = 28.1 ± 4.2) enrolled in a Basic Operations Firefighter Academy. Fitness and firefighting ability (via the Academy Firefighter Challenge) were assessed at Weeks 1 and 7 of the Academy. Results: Significant improvements in both fitness and firefighter ability were seen following the HIFT program. Specifically, fitness (BMI, cardiovascular fitness, muscular endurance) improved significantly [Hotelling’s T2 = 8.98, F(5, 84) = 150.92, p < 0.001, η2p = 0.90]. Firefighter ability also improved significantly [Hotelling’s T2 = 3.95, F(7, 88) = 46.26, p < 0.001, η2p = 0.80]. Conclusions: Following a 7-week Basic Operations Firefighter Academy that included daily HIFT, significant increases in fitness and firefighting ability were observed. These findings suggest that HIFT appears to be an effective means of improving fitness and firefighting ability in recruit firefighters.

The Acute Effect of High-Intensity Resistance Training on Subsequent Firefighter Performance

“…The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of an acute bout of HIRT on subsequent occupational performance and to determine the time course of recovery. This research is critical given the NFPA's recommendation to perform on-duty exercise (30), the high prevalence of firefighters using HIRT (19), and the efficacy of HIRT to enhance occupational readiness (6). Regarding group-level analysis, participation in a HIRT session reduced multiple performance metrics on a maximally paced SFGT 10min but not SFGT 60min .…”

“…There is some evidence supporting the efficacy of HIRT for structural firefighters. For instance, Chizewski et al (6) used HIRT in a portion of a 7-week training intervention in firefighter recruits and demonstrated increased firefighter physical ability, decreased body mass index (BMI), and improved cardiovascular and muscular endurance. High-intensity resistance training has also been demonstrated to be effective for military personnel because HIRT has been shown to increase metabolic and physiological adaptations that are associated with muscular strength, body composition, and general physical preparedness for uncertain situations (17).…”

The Urgent Need for Cardiopulmonary Fitness Evaluation among Wildland Firefighters in Thailand

“…Although their organizations conduct these periodic physical fitness evaluations to evaluate their fitness and estimate their readiness for job tasks, the proportion of physiologically fit individuals remains low. Low aerobic capacity could be improved through physical training programs and an increase in physical activity [ 11 , 35 , 36 , 37 ]. A meta-analysis study showed that an exercise intervention, including aerobic exercise, resistance exercise, or a combined method of 3–4 sessions/weeks for 16.5 ± 10 weeks, could improve aerobic capacity [ 35 ].…”

“…A meta-analysis study showed that an exercise intervention, including aerobic exercise, resistance exercise, or a combined method of 3–4 sessions/weeks for 16.5 ± 10 weeks, could improve aerobic capacity [ 35 ]. Chizewski et al [ 11 , 37 ] reported that high-intensity fitness training improved fitness and firefighting ability [ 37 ]. After performing a fitness training program for seven weeks, VO2 max increased from 40.84 ± 5.09 in the first week to 45.30 ± 5.24 in the seventh week [ 11 ].…”

A Description of Exercise Programs Implemented During a Firefighter Training Academy

“…Three researchers conducted the fitness assessments throughout the study, and the same tester performed assessments on the same group of subjects to maintain congruity between tester and subject 23,34 . For reference, these researchers possessed advanced degrees in exercise physiology, certifications from the American Council on Exercise, American College of Sports Medicine, and National Strength and Conditioning Association, and had extensive experience with physical fitness testing (approximately 30 combined years).…”