Firefighters Cardiorespiratory Fitness Parameters after 24 Weeks of Functional Training with and without Personal Protective Equipment

Abstract Introduction Firefighters’ (FFs) cardiorespiratory fitness is considered an important capacity for workability. To successfully complete safety standards and rescue protocols, FFs are required to accomplish minimum values of relative VO 2max . Physical programs must take into consideration physiological demands, being essential not only professional tasks but also as a guarantee their personal safety. This research aimed investigate the influence specific functional training (FT) with without protective equipment (PPE) self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) on FFs’ fitness. Material methods Sixty were randomly allocated in three groups (EG1 PPE+SCBA; EG2 regular control group) enrolled 24-week (two sessions/week) FT intervention program. assessed anthropometric 12-minute Cooper test, pre post-intervention. Results Both demonstrated significant improvements from baseline post EG1 (39.8 ± 6.5ml.kg ?1 .min 41.2 5.6ml.kg , p < 0.001, +3.5%; 41.5 8.3ml.kg 42.5 7.5ml.kg 0.05, +2.4%). Conclusions The proposed intervention, considering provided all fire departments, even running tasks, seems be adequate developing Regular PPE+SCAB encouraged improve VO2max levels related firefighting tasks.