How to get Firefighter Fit

The role of a firefighter can be physically very demanding. Consequently you’ll be required to maintain good general levels of physical fitness throughout your career.

EXPECTATIONS

A good general overall level of fitness is required to undertake firefighter training and good fitness levels cannot be acquired overnight. You should only undertake this programme if you already have a basic general level of aerobic fitness.

STRENGTH STANDARDS

1.5 miles

You should only plan to take on the 12 week training programme recommended here if you can run 1.5 miles in approximately 12-14 minutes

ARE YOU READY?

You can easily determine your current level of aerobic fitness by performing your best effort 1.5mile (2413m) run. You should only plan to take on the recruit training programme if you can run 1.5 miles in approximately 12-14 minutes or reach levels 5 to 7 on the Multi-Stage Shuttle Run Test.

PHYSICAL FITNESS

This translates into being able to carry out firefighting activities successfully and without undue fatigue. The key fitness components are:

  • Long-term Aerobic endurance
  • Muscular Strength
  • Muscular Endurance
  • Flexibility

Take a look at our Physical Fitness Guide

 

Fireground Fitness Test: Think you’re firefighter fit?

Ladder Lift Test

Fireground fitness test: Preparation

Ladder Carry Test: Kettlebell Carry

HOW TO DEVELOP AND MAINTAIN PHYSICAL FITNESS

Your training should be gradual and progressive. This will produce an improvement in your fitness by placing greater demands on your body.

Any physical training programme has four key components that can be manipulated to produce the desired training effect. These are:

MODE OF EXERCISE

the type e.g. cycling, running, swimming

TRAINING INTENSITY

how hard you are exercising

TRAINING DURATION

how long you are exercising

TRAINING FREQUENCY

how often you are exercising

Physical Fitness Guide