Submitted by MFP Robert Furst and FF Matt Miles of 15-B
Career and Volunteer Firefighters from your local fire and rescue stations have
been engaging in a challenging new physical training program that they have
named “Firefighter Fit.”
Firefighter - Fit is based on the Cross-Fit training program, but with
job-specific tasks incorporated into the training. These tasks include, but are
not limited to, hose extending and pulling drills, ceiling breach exercises,
forcible entry drills, victim drags and carries, and ladder carries. Some
Cross-Fit exercises integrated include tire flips and carries, weighted lunges,
pushups, and core exercises. Firefighter Fit is performed at an accelerated
pace in an anaerobic workout of continuous drills lasting 20-30 minutes without
rest periods. The Firefighter Fit workout goal is to complete these drills in
our [almost] full Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) - boots, structural
firefighter pants and jackets with firefighting gloves - and while wearing and
breathing air from our SCBA (air packs). Personnel of all fitness levels are
completing these drills in various forms of workout attire, PPE, and with or
without SCBA.
Firefighter Fit usually takes place at the fire station where we have all of
our equipment at our disposal.
Firefighter Fit is performed while on duty during the assigned physical
training activity period (normally in the morning) by your career firefighters.
This training may take place at any time by your local volunteer firefighters.
When you drive or walk by your local fire station and witness a group of your
local firefighters running, jumping, and using various types equipment in a
fury, they are participating in Firefighter Fit.
Your local firefighters are participating in Firefighter Fit for several
reasons. Most importantly, your local firefighters are participating in
Firefighter Fit for YOU. Physical training and staying fit are paramount in
maintaining our ability to come to your aid when you are in harm’s way. Your
local firefighters are also training for themselves. Maintaining a healthy
lifestyle and a high fitness level decreases the frequency of on the job
injuries and increases our quality of life (no one wants to be temporarily off duty or have to retire due to an injury). Also, bragging rights and friendly
competition are common between Firefighter Fit stations, and firefighters
always want to be the winners.
The next time you drive or walk by you local firefighters
participating in Firefighter Fit training, offer them some encouragement. They
are working out to be “combat ready” for you!
