Physical fitness levels of South Korean national male and female firefighters

Abstract

Background/Objecitves: Fire-fighting is highly required with aerobic fitness, strength, and body composition. However, there is a lack of comprehensive physical fitness data for South Korean firefighters. The purpose of this study was to collect fundamental data obtained with precise methods to compare with previously reported values form other countries. Methods: A total of 102 Korean national firefighters (84 males and 18 females) participated in this study. A graded exercise test was performed to measure the VO2max of the participants. Muscle strength and muscular endurance of the knees, shoulders, and trunk were measured with an isokinetic dynamometer and grip strength was measured using a grip dynamometer. DXA was utilized for body composition measurements. Results: The VO2max of the Korean male firefighters was 42.27 ml/kg/min and it was 35.93 ml/kg/min in the female firefighters. The right and left shoulder peak torque values were 103.1 Nm and 93.3 Nm in male firefighters and the torques in the female firefighters were 37.5% and 37.4% of those values, respectively. The grip strength of male and female firefighters was 49.9 kg and 30.8 kg. The body fat percentage of the male firefighters was 25.1% and it was 33.4% for female firefighters Conclusion: In our study, the Korean firefighters had relatively lower levels of physical fitness compared to different country's firefighters. The Korean National Fire Agency may reconsider modifying physical fitness test standards or making exercise guidelines to conform to published standards.