Monday you’re working your chest, triceps and abs. Tuesday you focus on back and biceps. You take Wednesday off before hitting the treadmill Thursday for a 5K run before some lifts that focus on your shoulders.
Or maybe you’re not a gym rat. You like the open road, logging dozens of miles each week jogging and cycling. You know cardio ability is so important to firefighting, and running works all the muscles anyway—no need for machines.
If either of these approaches sound like you, or if you fall somewhere in between (or behind), this fitness tip is for you.
Exercise in any form is generally a good thing. But firefighters have unique fitness needs. If you’re exercising just for the sake of exercising, you might be selling yourself short.
Aaron Zamzow, a firefighter with Madison (WI) Fire Department and founder of Fire Rescue Fitness, has another workout approach for you to consider:
5 Elements of a Firefighter Workout Program
Are We Fit to Fight Fires? Real-World Guidance for Firefighters and Leaders
