Firefighting Part 2: The Strength Difference

By Mike Berry, President/Owner of Power-Up USA, Inc. (MFD-Ret), T. Matic, CSCS (MFD-Bn. Chief-Ret.)

Introduction —

At the Fire Department's Bureau of Instruction and Training we have conducted original research to determine the physical characteristics important to fire fighting performance. The expert instructional staff responsible for daily training selected the top five firefighter recruits from three separate classes. Elite recruit selection was based on observed individual performances on all fire fighting activities during the 16 weeks of training. The physical characteristics of these Elite recruits were compared to the remaining or Typical recruits to determine differences contributing to the Elite recruits higher levels of performance. (Table 2.1 below)

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Elite Differences —

The Elite firefighter recruits were significantly taller, heavier, with more lean body mass. Additionally, the Elite recruits were significantly stronger on all strength tests. Fitness differences were small and non-significant. From a job task standpoint, the Size and/or Strength superiority of Elite recruits, resulted in significantly faster roof ladder placement times (13 seconds faster) and significantly faster five task (Combat Test®) times (50 seconds faster).

Relative Contributions —

The relative contribution of Strength, accounts for the majority of the difference between the Elite and Typical recruit groups. Strength is also the number one predictor of Elite recruits as revealed by stepwise multiply regression analysis. Size makes a significant, but smaller relative contribution to group differences. Relative contributions of Fitness are non-significant.

In Summary —

Performance differences between the recruit groups can be largely attributed to the superior Strength of the Elite firefighter recruits. Less then one-third of the difference can be attributed to Size. Both the Elite and Typical recruit groups have very good Fitness values, with no difference between the two groups. We strongly recommend that job related strength training be an integral part of any physical conditioning program for firefighters. In addition, as an adjunct to the strength training, health related fitness training should be included.