In recent years, performance and prevention strategies have grown to include monitoring training load (TL) to understand fatigue and the potential effects of fatigue on training adaptation and performance.

In order to move patients, gear, and equipment properly, the first responder must be able to move well themselves. Both unloaded and loaded movement should be examined and trained. One way to achieve this is to train frequently and properly with a constant focus on both mobility and strength in the various positions that are commonly required of first responders.

This research review covers topics such as the effects of police officer equipment loads, military occupational specialties, and the effects of protective clothing and self-contained breathing apparatus for firefighters.

Michol Dalcourt spoke at the NSCA’s 2016 Personal Trainers Conference on recovery-based strategies in program design, and how this approach can benefit clients.

All stressors affect training, Dr. Bryan Mann says in this lecture from Coaches Conference 2015. No matter the source of the stress - strength training, conditioning, classes, relationship or family - stress is systemic within the body. As a result, it is critical to monitor the stress load on your athletes to ensure maximal results, and it's easy to do - all you need is a pencil and paper.

This article describes the various strength training processes that can be implemented to build a soldier’s ruck march capacity.

Should personal trainers include the crunch exercise in an exercise program? The answer should always be, “it depends;” however, arriving at the best answer requires a process.

Matthew Ibrahim, Co-Owner of TD Athletes Edge, talks to the NSCA Coaching and Sport Science Program Manager, Eric McMahon, about using setbacks as a learning opportunity. Topics under discussion include creating a holistic approach to a client’s training by collaborating with other professionals, and the importance of deceleration technique and eccentrics in his programs for skill acquisition. Find Matthew on Instagram: @matthewibrahim_ | Find Eric on Instagram: @ericmcmahoncscs or Twitter: @ericmcmahoncscs

This article is part of a continuing series that examines pertinent and recent tactical strength and conditioning research reviews.

This article defines and reviews the allostatic load theory in tactical personnel.