Mesa Fire Department
Wellness Team
Firefighter Fitness Assessment Program

Introduction

Firefighting is a physically demanding profession that requires above average aerobic and anaerobic capacity, muscular endurance and strength, and flexibility. 
 

The Mesa Fire Department's Fitness Assessment Program is designed to measure fire fighter fitness level's and provide individual direction for improvement. Members subject to the use of a Self Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA) are required to participate in the program. This includes shift and day suppression personnel (battalion chiefs, deputy chiefs and below), civilian fire training coordinators and fire investigators. Fitness assessments are conducted annually.

What Does the Fitness Assessment Include?

Fitness assessments are performed confidentially by trained Health Fitness Instructor's (HFI). The assessment includes:

• Pre-Assessment Survey & Vital Signs. Information gathered is used to ensure that it is safe to conduct a member fitness assessment. 
• Sub-Max Aerobic Capacity Measurement.  This test is conducted on the treadmill using the Gerkin protocol. It measures cardiovascular efficiency.
• Body Composition. Body weight, skin fold body fat and waist-to-hip (body mass index) measurements are performed.
• Muscular Strength. Relative upper body strength is measured using a grip dynamometer.
• Muscular Endurance. Crunches and push up's are used to measure abdominal and upper body muscular endurance. A metronome is used to pace the measurement. Crunches are performed at a 30 per minute pace. Push up's are performed at a 40 per minute pace.
• Flexibility. A sit-and-reach device that allows for variations in leg and arm length is used to assure accurate measurement of hamstring and low back flexibility.
• Post Assessment Consultation. A Health Fitness Instructor reviews the results with the member. Strengths and weakness are discussed and direction for improvement is provided.
• Quantitative SCBA Mask Fit Testing. All personnel subject to wearing an SCBA will receive an OSHA mandated mask fit test.
• Resting Metabolic Rate Assessment.  Evaluates how may calories your body burns while at rest.  This information is used to calculate how many calories you can take in to lose, gain or maintain weight.
• Ortho Assessment performed by licensed Physical Therapist focusing on shoulder, back and knees.