An exercise training programme for firemen

Abstract The physical fitness of 30 firemen volunteers from one brigade has been assessed using physiological indices obtained during cycle ergometry; the firemen had significantly more body fat and a lower maximal oxygen uptake than mine rescue brigadesmen and factory workers in heavy industry of comparable age. A physical training programme comprising 15 min shuttle running on 4 days in 8 for 11 weeks produced a 16 % improvement in maximal oxygen uptake and appropriate changes in maximal stroke volume and other indices. Further study of training methods for fire brigadesmen is recommended.