Affiliations: [a] U.S. Spine & Sport Foundation, San Diego, CA, USA
| [b] Excellcior LLC, Tampa, FL, USA
| [c] School of Physical Therapy & Rehabilitation Sciences, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, USA
| [d] Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, College of Public Health, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, USA
Correspondence:
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Correspondence to: John M. Mayer, DC, PhD, FACSM, 11865 Aspen View Drive, San Diego, CA 92128, USA. Tel.: +1 858 583 4494; mayer1714@gmail.com
Abstract: BACKGROUND:Muscular strength and endurance are important attributes for structural firefighting. Matching resistance exercises to firefighter job demands is not well-established. OBJECTIVE:This study compared the electromyographic (EMG) activity of major muscles during the Candidate Physical Ability Test (CPAT) and weight lifting exercises in firefighters. METHODS:A repeated measures study was conducted in 13 full-duty career firefighters (1 F, 12 M; age 18–44 years). Participants completed seven weight lifting exercises at a university laboratory. They separately completed the CPAT at a firefighting training grounds. During each activity, surface EMG (% maximum voluntary isometric contraction - MVIC) of major muscle groups was recorded and compared between exercises and CPAT. RESULTS:No difference in EMG activity was observed between exercises and CPAT for the deltoid, trapezius, lumbar multifidus, gluteal, and biceps femoris muscles. EMG activity was significantly greater during the CPAT for the abdominal obliques (32.3% ±27.7% vs. 12.1% ±8.3%, p < 0.001) and for the latissimus dorsi (21.8% ±25.1% vs. 11.4% ±7.7%, p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS:Standard weight lifting and abdominal oblique exercises should be incorporated into resistance training programs for firefighters.
Keywords: Muscle activation, occupational injuries, resistance training, job related exercise, tactical athletes, first responders
