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Bureau of Indian Affairs Firefighter Fitness Challenge

The BIA Firefighter Fitness Challenge, based on the Bureau of Land Management challenge, provides a common system by which all firefighters from Indian Country who hold a red card can measure fitness goals, track improvement and receive recognition for their fitness efforts. The fitness challenge is voluntary, but all firefighters and other agency or tribal staff are encouraged to participate.

The Challenge tests participants in four basic exercises: push-ups, pull-ups, sit-ups and a timed run of either 1.5 or 3.0 miles. Test results are compiled into an overall score based on the scoring chart (see scoring chart).

Background
Excellent physical fitness is essential to firefighter performance. Generally speaking, the limiting factor on work production in wildland firefighting is individual fitness. In addition, fatigue has been found to be a contributing factor in many accidents, and numerous studies have proven that physical fitness is a good way to mitigate fatigue. The 2006 study, "Contributing Factors for Line of Duty Deaths in the Unites States" (Moore-Merrell, McDonald, Zhou, Fisher and Moore) concluded that 53.9 percent of firefighter deaths are due to health, fitness, or wellness. Physical fitness is a critical job element for all firefighters and is annually tested with the Work Capacity Test (WCT). However, the WCT is extremely limited in scope, testing only cardiovascular fitness. The Challenge is designed to round out firefighter fitness and wellness programs.

Pre-Test Preparation
All entrants should consider training for the fitness challenge. A well-rounded fitness program for wildland firefighters can be found at the NIFC FireFit website.

Pre-test Requirements

  • The Medical Standards exam must be completed prior to taking the fitness challenge.
  • A local medical plan should be in place prior to the test in the event medical assistance is required.

Fitness Challenge Test Administration
Test administrators shall read a description of each exercise and demonstrate proper form to the participants prior to the test.

Test Conditions

  • Exercises may be completed in any order
  • Each callisthenic event must be completed within three minutes
  • Maximum break between events is seven minutes
  • A ten minute warm-up is allowed before the run
  • An individual may test multiple times, but scoring will always be based on the results of a single testing event, not on individual exercise scores from separate testing events.

Scoring, Recognition and Awards
Based on the scoring chart, four levels of achievement may be reached. These levels are recognized by the Mens Sana in Corpore Sano (Sound Mind in a Sound Body) award, which consists of a personalized certificate and patch. The patch will note the year and the level of achievement. Platinum award winners will be awarded a personalized plaque.

Levels of Achievement:

  • Bronze - 100 points with a minimum of 25 points in each event
  • Silver - 200 points total
  • Gold - 300 points
  • Platinum 400 points total

Certification
All tests will be administered and certified at the unit level by the unit fire management officer or delegate. Unit fire managers seeking national recognition for high performing employees should send pertinent results to Dave Koch - BIA National Training Officer no later than June 30.