March 13, 2024by Robert Lockie, PhD, TSAC-F,*D, Tomas Ruvalcaba, MS, CSCS,*D, TSAC-F,*D, Annalise Maldonado, Elizabeth Leal-Alfaro, MS, and Jay Dawes, PhD, CSCS,*D, NSCA-CPT, TSAC-F,*D, FNSCA
This article aims to bring awareness to the importance of sleep and recovery for first responders, as well as providing strategies to optimize sleep specific to their occupational demands.
The program described in this article is an example of how a department can attempt to address and potentially prevent musculoskeletal injuries in firefighters and similar tactical populations. This process includes the use of movement screens, active workshops, and various modes of feedback.
The research reviewed in this article provides a baseline snapshot of clinically-relevant tools to screen, diagnose, and provide treatment that can improve behavior surrounding sleep, as well as quantity and quality of sleep in occupational firefighters.
TSAC FacilitatorsExercise ScienceProfessional Development
This article discusses how first responder organizations can optimize their training programs through scientific techniques, including the measurement of training load.
TSAC FacilitatorsExercise ScienceExercise TechniqueProgram designTesting and EvaluationProfessional Development
This article discusses flexible programming strategies for wildland fire suppression aids (FSAs). It also includes a detailed index of exercises that could be utilized for this specific population.
There are inherent challenges to designing training programs for firefighters, Mark Abel says in this member-only lecture from the 2014 TSAC Conference. Join Mark as he provides valuable insight into programming for these tactical athletes, including appropriate periodization and training strategies that address these challenges.
This article from TSAC 76, describes first responder wellness and the effects of PPE on occupational performance. Visit NSCA online to learn about exercise science and tactical fitness.
TSAC FacilitatorsExercise ScienceProgram designTesting and EvaluationClient Consultation|AssessmentSafetyProfessional Development
The purpose of this article was to conduct a process evaluation of a six-week recruit strength and conditioning programming for rural structural firefighter recruits.
TSAC FacilitatorsProgram designTesting and Evaluation
This article is the 11th in a continuing series of tactical strength and conditioning (TSAC) research reviews. It is designed to bring awareness to new research findings of relevance to tactical strength and conditioning communities.