It doesn't matter if you are a firefighter or first responder, it is important to keep fit. Firefighters are expected to perform various tasks including climbing ladders, opening windows, and performing emergency escapes. Fire rescue fitness programs can help first responders to perform better and reduce the risk of injury.
According to the IAFF/IAFC Wellness Fitness Initiative it is important that fire departments offer a wide range of fitness programs to firefighters. Ideally, each firefighter should be able to participate in about 60 to 90 minutes of exercise each shift. The fitness programs should be designed by a knowledgeable health care professional. Also, fire departments should have the right equipment and facilities in order to offer exercise programs.
Heart exercise is a great way to improve your performance as a firefighter. It is vital that a firefighter can efficiently use oxygen to improve his or her performance. For cardiovascular improvement, firefighters should exercise for 20 minutes every day.
Firefighters should also participate in anaerobic endurance exercise, which requires the ability to perform at near-maximum intensity in sub-minute bursts. Additionally, firefighters need to improve their flexibility in order to lower the chance of getting injured. In order to improve flexibility, a firefighter can add yoga poses into their workout routine. This can help to reduce injuries and improve balance.
Additionally to anaerobic, cardiovascular fitness, firefighters should also be involved in strength training. Strength exercises can reduce injury risk, including knee injuries, shoulder injuries, and early retirement. You can increase your firefighter's strength by doing power cleans, deadlifts, or sled pulls.
Mobility training is a great way to improve your joint mobility as a firefighter. Mobility exercises can also be done at home. However, it is more effective to visit a local gym.
Fire Rescue Fitness offers numerous workout programs to fit the needs of firefighters. These programs are available in a gym, at your home, or together with other firefighters. Each program includes exercises to improve cardiovascular capacity, strength and flexibility. The programs include nutritional guides.
Firefighters can also take part in challenge exercises, which are workouts that aim to push their limits. These workouts can also be used to encourage firefighters to join the program. The challenge workout can be helpful for firefighters who have difficulty doing an exercise.
A monthly exercise program is a good idea for firefighters. It can increase their fitness and lower the chance of getting injured. These programs can help firefighters lose up to 50 pounds. Another program that rewards firefighters for completing the program is the fitness reward program. When firefighters complete a workout program, they are entered into a raffle for prizes.
Firefighters need to be prepared for a firefighter specific fitness test such as Comprehensive Physical Ability Test. The CPAT measures fitness in a more functional way than traditional fitness testing.