PHYSICAL TRAINING
I've never met a normal person who thought walking up to 8+ miles with 110+/- lbs on their back, in some of the most difficult and remote terrain in the country, would be a good time. But this isn't a normal job and it requires a high level of physical fitness. We place a high emphasis on our physical fitness program at this base--it is extremely important that all rappellers are in top shape before the season starts. This not only helps us perform our job more efficiently but will aid us in recovery from injury and possibly be what saves us in extreme fire situations. Everyone has heard that a crew is only as strong as its weakest member, and this is why we strive to be as fit as possible. We are our brother's/sister's keeper and having a physically fit crew will increase safety for all of us.
The first five weeks of training are challenging. The workouts range from running, Crossfit, hiking, calisthenics, running, plyometrics, and more running. The physical training program is designed for individuals to maintain a high level of fitness rather than to break people down. It is crucial that recruits arrive in top physical condition. The training builds on itself and is as close a reflection of the physical demands of the job as possible. It is meant to be challenging physically as well as mentally. It is geared around performing physically and mentally under stress. Eat right, sleep plenty and manage injuries. Know and listen to your body and don't over-train.
As a condition of hire it is required that all rappellers pass the Work Capacity Test. This is a 3 mile walk on flat terrain with a 45lbs pack in under 45 minutes--the same standard for all wildland firefighters. As aerially delivered firefighters, we also have a set list of desired physical fitness goals as stated in the National Rappel Operations Guide. These are completed by all members of the crew on the first morning of work. The Physical minimum goals include a push-up test, a pull-up test, a core test, a 1 1/2 mile run and finally a rappeller pack-out. The desired fitness goals are as follows:
1.5 mile run in under 11 min.
25 push up in 1 min
7 pullups
3 mile/flat/under 90 min PACK OUT (TBD 110#/90#/85#)
We encourage all crew members to reach for these fitness goals annually including permanent staff. Though these are the minimum standards you will find that many firefighters exceed these numbers and we will assist you with reaching higher goals. The best way to pass these minimums is to train. If you have any questions about the minimums or the physical fitness program at this base call Kyle Johnson.
1.5 mile run in under 11 min.
25 push up in 1 min
7 pullups
3 mile/flat/under 90 min PACK OUT (TBD 110#/90#/85#)
We encourage all crew members to reach for these fitness goals annually including permanent staff. Though these are the minimum standards you will find that many firefighters exceed these numbers and we will assist you with reaching higher goals. The best way to pass these minimums is to train. If you have any questions about the minimums or the physical fitness program at this base call Kyle Johnson.