The Effect of a Novel Tactical Training Program on Physical Fitness and Occupational Performance in Firefighters

Abstract

Structural firefighting is a dangerous and physically demanding profession. Thus, it is critical that firefighters exercise regularly to maintain optimal physical fitness levels. However, little is known about optimal training methods for firefighters, and exercise equipment is often not available to on-duty firefighters. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to determine the effect of a novel supervised on-duty physical training program on the physical fitness and occupational performance of structural firefighters. Twenty professional male firefighters were divided into a supervised exercise group (SEG; n = 11) and a control group (CG; n = 9). The SEG participated in a 12-week circuit training intervention. The SEG exercised for 1 hour on 2 d·wk. At baseline and after the intervention, subjects performed a battery of physical fitness tests and a simulated fire ground test (SFGT). At baseline, there were no significant differences (p = 0.822) in the completion rate of the SFGT in the SEG (82%) vs. the CG (78%). After the intervention, a significantly greater proportion of the firefighters in the SEG completed the SFGT compared with the CG (SEG = 100% vs. CG = 56%; p < 0.013). In addition, the SEG demonstrated significant improvements in body mass, fat mass, and body mass index (p ≤ 0.05). The findings of this study indicate that training with firefighter equipment improved occupational performance and anthropometric outcomes in incumbent firefighters. Furthermore, implementing a supervised exercise program using firefighter equipment can be done so in a safe and feasible manner.

The relationship between firefighters’ physical performance characteristics and simulated firefighting demands

“…In order to mimic a real-life scenario, participants performed the SGFT tasks at a realistic pace that would be seen on duty at an emergency scene. There is significant research from multiple studies stating muscular strength and endurance to be closely associated with FF performance due to the amount of lifting, carrying, pulling, and dragging that occurs on the job (Durand et al, 2011;El-Kader & Mahoun, 2010;Gledhill & Jamnik, 1992;Hendrickson et al, 2010;Michaelides et al, 2011;Pawlak et al, 2015;Rhea et al, 2004;Williford et al, 1999).…”

“…Firefighting is a demanding and hazardous profession that places tremendous amounts of stress on the body, both physically and mentally (Pawlak et al, 2015). Being a firefighter (FF) requires high levels of physical fitness in order to meet the demands of the job (Pawlak et al, 2015). The lack of a physical training program for FFs is linked to higher rates of job-related injuries (Sheaff et al, 2010).…”

The Tactical Athlete

“…Tactical professionals, like traditional athletes, require both a level of fitness and T/TSs commensurate with their occupational requirements to successfully achieve short-term objectives and overcome various threats (human or environmental) (6,10,14,21). The heavy reliance on physical fitness is such that recruitment and initial training of military, law enforcement, and fire-service professionals is graded on demonstrable fitness standards requisite for selection or graduation from initial training schools (4,5,8,24).…”

An overview of compensated work-related injuries among Korean firefighters from 2010 to 2015

“…This indicates that current training has become an important cause of work-related injuries among firefighters, and in conflict with its original purpose of preventing injuries and enhancing job performance. And effective training methods to prevent injuries occurring during training or athletic events [17–19]. …”

“…Therefore, preventive measures against frequent injuries should be given priority. Programs should be developed to improve the strength and flexibility or frequent injured sites in firefighter training [17–19]. In addition, financial and medical support should be need, until an individual fully recovers from a work-related injury [6, 24, 25].…”