Validity of submaximal aerobic capacity and strength tests in firefighters

Although aerobic fitness and strength are important to firefighters, the accuracy of submaximal tests to profile these during recruitment and/or annual testing is still not well established. This study examined how well submaximal stepping and weight-lifting tests estimate maximum aerobic capacity and strength of firefighters, respectively. Estimated maximum strength demonstrated good accuracy, whilst estimates of maximum aerobic capacity were less accurate and should be used cautiously when making operational decisions relating to firefighter fitness.