MFRE PFA’S

              What is a PFA and why is it important?  The “Physical Fitness Assessment” consists of several assessments that can give the participant a good look into their overall fitness.  Whatever you “score”, can be matched against predetermined values (values come from professional certified fitness agencies that work with the IAFF) to see where you stand.  It goes without saying, the better your values are, the better you will be able to perform during operations.  With that said, your likelihood of becoming injured also drastically decreases.  There is always risk of injury no matter what we do and exercise/physical fitness is no exception.  However, with proper form and a controlled environment, the risk of injury from exercise is far less than waking up at 2 am and going to a job.  Remember, at the end of the day this assessment is for you. 

“Five components of fitness are being evaluated to determine a baseline level of fitness for fire service personnel, measure progress from year to year, and provide personal exercise recommendations.  The five components are: Body Composition, Aerobic Capacity, Power, Muscular Strength and Endurance, and Mobility and Flexibility.  The assessment is also structured so that observations can be made regarding a performer’s control of shoulder, knee and lower-back motion, and coordination of the upper- and lower-body.  Fitness assessments may be conducted by the designated fire department’s certified fitness personnel.  All data collected by the evaluator shall be maintained in a secure location and adhere to strict levels of confidentiality.” IAFF WFI 4^th Edition Appendix A

“While fire departments may provide information regarding norms for their members, under no circumstances does the IAFF/IAFC Joint Labor Management WFI Task Force Committee endorse the use of norms to establish standards that, if not met, might result in punitive action.”  IAFF WFI 4^th Edition pg. 39

If you find yourself at a level where you do not want to be, PLEASE reach out to a PFT or CPT and start discussing ways to make positive changes in your life.  Sometimes asking for help can be a hard pill to swallow.  But understand we are a family and we will do what we can to help you reach your fitness goals.  Small changes make big results over time! 

STAY SAFE,

FF/PM Bryan Mathiau CPT-1