Term of Award

Spring 2024

Degree Name

Master of Science, Kinesiology - Exercise Science Concentration

Document Type and Release Option

Thesis (open access)

Copyright Statement / License for Reuse

Digital Commons@Georgia Southern License

Department

Department of Health and Kinesiology

Committee Chair

Bridget Melton

Committee Member 1

Richard Cleveland

Committee Member 2

Andrew Flatt

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Firefighting is a high-risk occupation that requires a certain level of health and fitness to ensure optimal occupational performance. Improving body composition by reducing fat mass and increasing muscular strength and power are two great methods for improving performance. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to examine how an 8-week undulating training program affects firefighter body composition, muscular strength/power, and occupational performance. METHODS: A total of 33 active male firefighters were recruited for this study. Prior to the start of the 8-week undulating program, all participants were pre-tested on several fitness variables including body composition, strength, power, and occupational performance. The following week upon completion of the program, all participants were post-tested on the same fitness variables. The effects of the undulating program on the fitness variables were analyzed using a paired samples t-test. The level of significance was set at p < 0.05. RESULTS: All body composition variables saw a significant increase from pre-to-post which included WT (p = 0.002), MM (p = 0.022) and BFP (p = 0.021). There was also a significant increase in both strength variables which included DOM HGS (p = 0.023) and NON-DOM HGS (p = 0.025), however we did not see a significant increase in CMJ (p = 0.464). Occupational performance saw the most significant improvement (p = 0.001). CONCLUSION: These findings show the importance of having a structured program to further improve firefighters’ health, fitness, and occupational performance. All departments should look to implement their own health and wellness program for the betterment of their firefighters.

Research Data and Supplementary Material

Yes

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