Research has demonstrated the need for high levels of aerobic fitness, muscular endurance, muscular strength, muscular power and flexibility in order to perform safely and effectively in the fire service.

While assessing uniformed personnel’s current fitness level is an important part of developing an individualized fitness program, assessment is not, in itself, a fitness program. An effective physical fitness program has several components that must be implemented, including medical clearance and exercise and nutrition programs, to name a few.