The purpose of this article is to discuss the health and occupational implications of firefighters not currently meeting the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) aerobic capacity recommendations.
September 12, 2020by Brandon Loewen, CSCS, Bridget Ann Frugoli Melton, EdD, CSCS, TSAC-F, Gregory A. Ryan, PhD, CSCS,*D, TSAC-F, and Ronald L. Snarr, PhD, CSCS,*D, NSCA-CPT
The purpose of this article is to address the key elements when designing a training program for firefighters, provide evidence for utilizing circuit training, and suggest recommendations on how to incorporate circuit training into the training program.
This article examines the causes of cardiovascular risk among firefighters and suggests potential interventions to support long-term health. Visit NSCA online to learn more about firefighter fitness and tactical performance.
TSAC FacilitatorsExercise ScienceNutritionExercise TechniqueProgram designOrganization and AdministrationTesting and EvaluationSafetyEmergency ProceduresBasic Pathophysiology and Science of Health Status or Condition, Disorder, or DiseaseProfessional Development
Obstacle course training can offer variety to any physical readiness training program. Properly conducted obstacle course training may be a useful method to train strength, endurance, and mobility simultaneously.
This column reviews recent literature that investigated the appropriateness of a commonly utilized on-duty exercise training modality for firefighters and describes the occupational demands of specialist tactical police officers.
Former volunteer firefighter and current high school strength and conditioning coach, Ryan Johnson, talks about establishing school/program emergency response protocols in this session from the NSCA’s 2017 Coaches Conference.
CoachesProgram designOrganization and AdministrationEmergency Procedures
The program described in this article is an example of how a department can attempt to address and potentially prevent musculoskeletal injuries in firefighters and similar tactical populations. This process includes the use of movement screens, active workshops, and various modes of feedback.
Annette Zapp, Lieutenant Firefighter in Chicago, talks to the Former NSCA Head Strength and Conditioning Coach, Scott Caulfield, about strength and conditioning in the firefighting niche. Topics under discussion include the perks of being a firefighter who is also a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist® (CSCS®) and Tactical Strength and Conditioning Facilitator® (TSAC-F®), the typical lifestyles and attitudes of firefighters in general, and common issues that they face both physically and mentally.
Find Annette on Twitter: @FireSQFitness or Instagram: @FireSQFitness
This article examines firefighter knee injury risk factors, screening tools, and strength and conditioning strategies to support injury prevention and return to duty. Visit NSCA online to learn more about strength training for firefighters.
TSAC FacilitatorsExercise ScienceExercise TechniqueProgram designOrganization and AdministrationTesting and EvaluationClient Consultation|AssessmentSafetyProfessional Development