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Completed

NCT Number: NCT06717737

Impact of Team-Based Training on Compliance and Physical Fitness in Firefighters

Research Objectives: This study aims to develop a team-based training model specifically tailored for firefighters, focusing on improving their cardiovascular fitness, physical attributes, and fostering sustainable health behaviors. The ultimate goal is to reduce the risk of injuries associated with the physically demanding tasks they perform during their duties.

Research Hypotheses:

Firefighters participating in the team-based training model will demonstrate significant improvements in key fitness parameters, such as cardiorespiratory fitness, muscular strength, endurance, and body composition compared to those engaged in traditional training.

The team-based approach will enhance adherence to physical training among firefighters, leading to more consistent participation and improved health outcomes.

This clinical study is a randomized controlled trial that involved 42 firefighters who were divided into two groups: one receiving a team-based training intervention for six months and the other continuing with conventional exercises. The team training incorporated aerobic, resistance, and functional exercises, emphasizing teamwork and peer support to motivate participants. Key fitness measures, including cardiorespiratory fitness, strength, endurance, flexibility, and body mass index (BMI), were assessed before and after the intervention.

The study hypothesized that the team-based training model would not only enhance fitness levels but also improve adherence to training routines among firefighters, ultimately contributing to better health and safety during their demanding work.

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Key information

Conditions

Physical Fitness Deficits in Firefighters Exercise Adherence Challenges Injury Risk Associated with Firefighting Tasks

Age range

18 year–50 year

Sex eligibility

Male

Study type

Interventional

Phase

Not applicable

Primary location

Changsha Fire Brigade

Changsha, Hunan, 410000, China

Who can participate

Healthy volunteers accepted: No

Only the study team can determine whether someone qualifies for participation.

Inclusion criteria

Firefighters aged 18 to 50 years. Currently active duty within the selected brigade. Capable of performing physically demanding tasks without medical restrictions. Written informed consent provided by participants.

Exclusion criteria

Firefighters with any cardiovascular, respiratory, or musculoskeletal conditions that could hinder participation or affect fitness outcomes.

Individuals recovering from recent injuries or surgeries. Firefighters enrolled in external training programs that may impact baseline health assessments.

Any participant who refuses to provide informed consent.

Treatment and study plan

Control group： Maintaining old exercise habits

Behavioral

The control group will maintain their original daily habits without any intervention behaviors for them

Intervention group：Conducted a 6-month team training intervention

Behavioral

Spanning six months, the program incorporated aerobic training, resistance training, and functional exercises essential for rescue operations. Each training session was led by certified professionals who emphasized adherence to safety protocols and provided real-time feedback.

Central to the training process was the significance of teamwork and mutual support, with sessions conducted in small groups focused on shared objectives. This framework fostered a collaborative environment that promoted peer support and motivated participants to actively engage in their fitness regimen. The group setting enabled firefighters to encourage one another and share individual progress, thereby enhancing their sense of responsibility and belonging.

Primary outcomes

  1. Maximal oxygen consumption (VO2max)

    Time frame: Baseline, 3 months, and 6 months following the intervention.

    This primary outcome measure assesses changes in cardiorespiratory fitness among firefighters participating in the team-based training program. Fitness is evaluated using the Gerkin treadmill protocol, which estimates maximal oxygen consumption (VO2max).

  2. Body composition

    Time frame: Baseline, 3 months, and 6 months following the intervention.

    measured using the Inbody770 bioelectrical impedance analyzer, with BMI calculated as weight (kg) divided by height squared (m²);

  3. Muscular strength

    Time frame: Baseline, 3 months, and 6 months following the intervention.

    Grip strength is assessed using a hand dynamometer, with the maximum value recorded from three attempts for each hand.

  4. Muscular endurance

    Time frame: Baseline, 3 months, and 6 months following the intervention.

    Muscular endurance is evaluated through maximum push-ups and sit-ups performed within standardized time limits (2 minutes for push-ups and 3 minutes for sit-ups).

  5. Flexibility

    Time frame: Baseline, 3 months, and 6 months following the intervention.

    Flexibility is assessed using a modified sit-and-reach test, measuring the distance reached beyond the toes while seated.

  6. Exercise adherence

    Time frame: Baseline, 3 months, and 6 months following the intervention.

    Adherence is assessed by tracking the completion of daily training sessions, defined as performing more than 50% of the prescribed exercises and sets.

Sponsors and collaborators

Lead sponsor

Shen Xin

Other

Registry information

Important dates

Study start
2024
Primary completion
2024
Study completion
2024
First posted
Dec 5, 2024
Registry last updated
Dec 5, 2024

OpenTrials presents study information sourced from ClinicalTrials.gov. The official registry record should be consulted for the latest information.

View the official ClinicalTrials.gov record (opens in a new tab)

This listing is for discovery and informational purposes only. It is not medical advice, does not guarantee that a study is recruiting, and does not determine eligibility. Contact the study team and a qualified healthcare professional when considering participation.

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