DFD Fitness Evaluations

Members of the DFD,

Over the next couple of months we will be doing the annual Fitness Evaluations.  As in the past, participation is completely voluntary and members can choose to participate in all of the activities or just certain ones.  HOWEVER, crews are expected to show up at the test site no matter how many members plan to participate.  With the Performance Evaluation coming up, this is a good chance for everyone to see where they are in regards to personal fitness and getting ready for the PE.  Remember, next year, all personnel will be required to go through the full PE while in full gear (on air is optional). 

In an effort to get crews through the evaluation as quickly as possible (and to stay on schedule), crews will be expected to go Out of Service when it is their turn to go.  This will allow us time to get all members participating through the entire process in a timely manner.

This years Fitness Evaluation will consist of the following:

1. Vitals

As in years past, we will be taking the vitals of anyone that would like us to.  If members are going to participate in the VO2 Max Test, their vitals must not exceed the following thresholds (these are the same ones we have for the Performance Evaluation):

1. Pulse must be lower than 110 BPM.
2. BP must be lower than 160/100.

If your vitals are outside of those, we will give you some time to relax and retake them later.  If they are within the acceptable ranges, you will be cleared for the Treadmill test.  If not, you will be advised to follow up with your primary care physician.  IF A MEMBER HAS A SYSTOLIC PRESSURE OVER 180, THAT MEMBER MUST CONTACT THE OUCHLINE IMMEDIATELY FOR GUIDANCE.  THE AMERICAN HEART ASSOCIATION HAS DETERMINED THAT A SYSTOLIC PRESSURE ABOVE 180 IS A SIGN OF AN IMMINENT STROKE.

2. Functional Movement Screen

This screen is involves 7 movements that help determine if members are susceptible to preventable injuries (such as sprains, strains, etc.).  Additionally, it can help identify if certain parts of the body are being overworked as they compensate for current or past injuries.  With this information, we can personalize exercises for each member to help them achieve optimal, pain free movement and attempt to prevent avoidable injuries in the future.  The video enclosed demonstrates the movements that members will be asked to perform. 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sksCwNt7JN4&feature=youtu.be

3. VO2 Max (Treadmill Test)

 This event is the same test that we have given since the inception of the Fitness Evaluations.  This test helps measure an individuals overall fitness because it is linked to aerobic endurance and  is one of the best indicators of an individual’s cardiovascular fitness.  Once all members participating in the Treadmill Test have completed the test, crews can return to service.

If you have any questions about the 2017 Fitness Evaluations, please feel free to contact me.

Lt. Shawn Brooks