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CREATING A HIGHER MINIMUM FITNESS LEVEL FOR WILD LAND FIREFIGHTERS

Abstract

CREATING A HIGHER MINIMUM FITNESS LEVEL FOR WILD LAND FIREFIGHTERS

N. J. Hallfrisch, J.M. Stafford, J.C. Cabrera, S.E. Gaskill FACSM

University of Montana, HHP Dept. Missoula, MT

Currently the 45 pound pack test for wild land firefighters which requires a VO2 of 21.5 ml*kg-1*min-1 does not accurately reflect the aerobic capacity of 28-35 ml*kg-1*min-1 required for wild land firefighting (WLFF).

PURPOSE: Our aim was to create a new test (3 miles, uphill with a 55 pound pack) more closely matching the aerobic and strength capacity necessary for wild land firefighting. METHODS: We tested 23 males and 11 females across 357 5 minute stages of varied speed (2.2-4.1 mph) and grade (2-14%). Subjects were of moderate to high fitness, age =23.09 ± 3.26 years, weight =75.44 ± 11.22 kg and height =175.06 ± 8.51 cm. The subjects were required to carry a 55 pound pack during all stages. The subject’s VO2 and heart rate were measured during the entire trial and averaged for the last two minutes of each stage. Multiple regression analysis was used to calculate prediction equations for VO2 (ml*kg-1*min-1). RESULTS: A new regression equation for the energy cost of carrying a 22 kg pack was calculated [VO2 (ml*kg-1*min-1) = 911.84 x mph) + (188 x % grade) -19.87, R=0.85, p<0.001] which averaged 2.1 ml O2*kg-1*min-1 above that predicted by the ACSM equations. This test requires VO2 values reflective of actual aerobic capacity of 28-35 ml*kg-1*min-1 needed during WLFF. CONCLUSION: Data from this new test can be used to develop time standards for a 3 mile hike carrying 22kg (55 pounds) up a known grade in the range of 2-14%.

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