Fighting fire requires a superior level of fitness. The dangerous situations firefighters experience daily are physically demanding. Being properly prepared for these physical challenges can save a firefighter's life. Outlined below are a series of exercises designed to help firefighters reach the level of fitness required to safely do the job.
1. Sled drags
Firefighters need to be able to drag equipment and carry victims to safety, and they need to do it without exhausting themselves. Sled drags are an excellent exercise for strengthening the muscles required to do these tasks.
2. Farmer walks
Fire hoses can be difficult to hold onto. The strength of a firefighter's grip can be a key factor in a successful fire rescue. Farmer walks can drastically strengthen grip and upper body muscles, making it less likely that a firefighter will tire while working the hose.
3. Squats
This exercise is crucial for firefighters. Leg strength increases speed and stability. These two skills are crucial for completing the job safely and effectively, and squats are guaranteed to improve leg strength and balance.
4. Deadlifts
On the scene of an emergency, firefighters will likely be required to lift heavy objects frequently. This can mean moving weighty obstructions or hoisting an unconscious victim and carrying them to safety. Deadlifts ensure that a firefighter's muscles are strong enough to lift heavy objects at a moment's notice.
5. Medicine ball slams
Having a strong core is crucial for firefighters. While crunches can be an effective way to achieve strong abdominal muscles, medicine ball slams engage all areas of the core. This creates rotational strength and can help firefighters become more agile.
6. Weighted stairs
Firefighters are required to go up and down stairs quickly and often weighed down by heavy equipment. Weighted stairs exercises can train the legs to withstand these physical demands. These exercises can also help prevent fatigue and improve a firefighter's speed.
7. Vertical jumps
In a burning building, there may be obstructions that result in a firefighter having to jump and hoist himself or herself over the obstacle. Structural damage could also leave firefighters with no option but to jump and hoist themselves to another, safer level of a burning house. Vertical jumps help improve the heights to which firefighters are able to leap. This exercise also strengthens leg muscles which can help prevent exhaustion from carrying the heavy equipment.
Good physical fitness can be a lifesaving factor for firefighters. The demands of the job require plenty of strength and conditioning, and the exercises above can help firefighters improve those two things.