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Evaluating the effect of a strength and conditioning program to improve paramedic candidates' physical readiness for
Daniel P Armstrong1, Kathryn E Sinden2, Jonathan Sendsen1
1Department of Kinesiology, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ONT, Canada.
Background:
The Ottawa Paramedic Physical Ability Test (OPPAT™) is a physical employment standard for the paramedic sector. If a candidate is unsuccessful in meeting the OPPAT™ performance standard they should be provided with an appropriate accommodation, such as a strength and conditioning program, to improve performance.
Objective:
Develop, implement and evaluate the effectiveness of a 4-week strength and conditioning program on improving OPPAT™ performance and associated fitness measures in paramedic candidates.
Methods:
A 4-week strength and conditioning program was developed to focus on strength and power improvements. Based on initial OPPAT™ performance, participants were divided into high and low performing groups; only the low performing group received the training intervention. OPPAT™ completion times and relevant fitness measures were compared pre- to post- intervention and between groups.
Results:
Over the 4-weeks, peak lower body power and grip strength did not significantly improve in the intervention group, however OPPAT™ performance improved by 10%. The control group had significantly lower OPPAT™ completion times both pre- and post-intervention (19% and 11% lower respectively), as well as greater grip strength and peak lower body power.
Conclusions:
Implementation of a targeted strength and conditioning program successfully improved OPPAT™ performance in low performing candidates.