Cardiorespiratory Fitness in Spanish Firefighters

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the cardiorespiratory fitness and other fitness-related measures, and to analyze the differences among age groups. METHODS: This study was conducted on 104 firefighters. Maximal oxygen uptake (VO2 max) was assessed using the Shuttle Test and fitness was evaluated using appropriate physical tests. RESULTS: Mean VO2 max was 45.7 mL/kg/min and 60.6% of firefighters were over the minimum accepted standpoint to do effective work, however, the VO2 max decreased with increasing age. 35.6% of the firefighters were overweight. Age, weight, and total body fat were found to be significant predictors of VO2 max level in this population, with total body fat as strongest predictor. CONCLUSIONS: Healthy habits-based interventions tailored by age groups should be promoted, to improve cardiorespiratory fitness and body composition for safe work and to improve firefighters' health.