Comparable Levels of Objectively Measured Physical Activity and Cardiorespiratory Fitness in Firefighters from Two Mid-West Fire Departments.

OBJECTIVE: To objectively assess if firefighters are meeting the NFPA cardiorespiratory fitness and ACSM/AHA physical activity guidelines.

METHODS: Two independent fire departments from the Midwest participated in the study. Firefighters wore an accelerometer to track physical activity and associated intensities. Additionally, firefighters completed a stage-graded treadmill exercise test determine their maximal oxygen uptake (V̇O2max).

RESULTS: A total of 43 career firefighters completed the study (FD1: n = 29, FD2: n = 14). Almost half (44.8% FD1 and 42.9% FD2) met the NFPA CRF Guidelines. Compared to the ACSM PA Guidelines of 30 minutes/day of MVPA, over half of FD2 (57.1%) met the recommended amount of PA, whereas FD1 had less than half (48.3%).

CONCLUSION: This data demonstrates the need to improve firefighters' physical activity levels, cardiorespiratory fitness, and overall health.