Evaluation of circuit-training intensity for firefighters

Area of Science:

• Occupational physiology
• Exercise science
• Firefighter fitness

Background:

• Firefighting demands high aerobic and anaerobic fitness.
• Circuit training may enhance firefighter preparedness by stressing both energy systems.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the aerobic and anaerobic intensities of a circuit-based workout with physiological data from firefighters during fire suppression and rescue tasks.

Main Methods:

• Twenty career firefighters performed a 12-exercise circuit workout.
• Heart rate and blood lactate levels were measured.
• Responses were compared to published data on firefighting tasks.

Main Results:

• Circuit training heart rate (79% HRmax) was similar to simulated smoke-diving but lower than fire suppression (88% HRmax).
• Peak blood lactate levels were comparable between circuit training and firefighting tasks.
• Circuit training induced lower cardiovascular stress but similar anaerobic stress.

Conclusions:

• Circuit training alone may not fully prepare firefighters for strenuous tasks.
• Supplementing circuit training with high-intensity cardiovascular and resistance exercise is recommended.
• This approach ensures adequate preparation for the diverse physical demands of firefighting.