Vol 17, Issue 4

Using a Walking Test to Assess Firefighter Fitness

May 15, 2024 - By 

Authors

Stephanie Donahue, Department of Kinesiology, University of New Hampshire; Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine
Bilal Chaudhry, Department of Kinesiology, University of New Hampshire
Carly McMorrow, Department of Kinesiology, University of New Hampshire
Morgan Daly, Department of Kinesiology, University of New Hampshire
Summer B. Cook, Department of Kinesiology, University of New Hampshire
Michael Brian, Department of Kinesiology, University of New Hampshire
Deborah L. Feairheller, Department of Kinesiology, California State University San Marcos
International Journal of Exercise Science 17(4): 285-297, 2024. 
DOI: 10.70252/LXNT2864

Abstract

Tactical populations face increased risk on the job, and it is known that firefighters have high levels of cardiac-related death. Aerobic fitness is a modifiable cardiac risk factor, but many fire stations lack the proper equipment to easily assess aerobic fitness levels of their firefighters. Additionally, many fire stations lack wellness programs to hold firefighters accountable for maintaining their fitness levels. Purpose: We assessed the validity of the submaximal 6-minute walk test (6MWT) as a measure of aerobic capacity compared to a maximal treadmill test and the submaximal Gerkin protocol. Methods: Twenty-four firefighters (19 male, 5 female, 34.8 ± 9.7 years; 38.1 ± 3.6 kg⋅m-2) completed the 6MWT, the submaximal Gerkin protocol, and a maximal treadmill test. Data were analyzed with Bland-Altman plots and correlation analysis. Results: We found equivalence between the 6MWT and directly measured VO2max and between the 6MWT and Gerkin protocol using Bland-Altman plots. In our cohort, the 6MWT underestimated VO2max (31.57 mlᐧkg-1ᐧmin-1) compared to directly measured VO2max (38.1 mlᐧkg-1ᐧmin-1) by 17% and to the Gerkin (40.48 mlᐧkg-1ᐧmin-1) by 22%. Conclusion: Considering its equivalence, using the 6MWT could be a more accessible way to quantify aerobic capacity in firefighters. Despite underestimation, having an easy to administer protocol may encourage more fire stations to assess pre- and post- fitness levels regularly.

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