New Fitness Regimen Just for Firefighters

The Los Angeles Fire Department on Thursday unveiled a new fitness program designed specifically for firefighters by Cal State Northridge faculty and students.

Wanting a specialized exercise program, the department hired CSUN kinesiology professor Steven Loy as its wellness coordinator. Loy brought 15 graduate students and 10 faculty members into the project for free.

In developing the 24-minute exercise routine, the students researched what muscles are used to perform such firefighting tasks as positioning a ladder, operating a rotary saw and picking up a victim, Loy said.

They came up with a variety of exercises, including a unique one in which the firefighter moves from a squatting position to a standing position, then lifts up to 50 pounds overhead, all while wearing a 45-pound simulated breathing apparatus on his or her back.

“It was a win-win-win for the Fire Department, CSUN and its faculty and the community of Los Angeles,” said Loy. “If we can create a more safe, physically fit firefighter, they are able to better serve the community.”

Battalion Chief Daryl Arbuthnott, department spokesman, said the program will be very effective. Currently, there is no formal exercise program for firefighters.

“It’s geared toward our needs and incorporates cardiovascular exercises, so we can train to the level we need,” he said.

The Fire Department is waiting on approval from the United Firefighters of Los Angeles City, the union representing about 2,750 fire personnel, before the program is implemented in all 104 city fire stations. He expects that in about two months, everyone from captains to rookie firefighters will be doing the new exercise program during every shift.