Armstrong DP, Sinden KE, Sendsen J, MacPhee RS, Fischer SL. Evaluating the effect of a strength and conditioning program to improve paramedic candidates' physical readiness for duty.
Work 2019;
63:623-633. [PMID:
31282455 DOI:
10.3233/wor-192953]
[Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND
The Ottawa Paramedic Physical Ability Test (OPPAT™) is a physical employment standard for the paramedic sector. If a candidate is unsuccessful in meeting the OPPAT™ performance standard they should be provided with an appropriate accommodation, such as a strength and conditioning program, to improve performance.
OBJECTIVE
Develop, implement and evaluate the effectiveness of a 4-week strength and conditioning program on improving OPPAT™ performance and associated fitness measures in paramedic candidates.
METHODS
A 4-week strength and conditioning program was developed to focus on strength and power improvements. Based on initial OPPAT™ performance, participants were divided into high and low performing groups; only the low performing group received the training intervention. OPPAT™ completion times and relevant fitness measures were compared pre- to post- intervention and between groups.
RESULTS
Over the 4-weeks, peak lower body power and grip strength did not significantly improve in the intervention group, however OPPAT™ performance improved by 10%. The control group had significantly lower OPPAT™ completion times both pre- and post-intervention (19% and 11% lower respectively), as well as greater grip strength and peak lower body power.
CONCLUSIONS
Implementation of a targeted strength and conditioning program successfully improved OPPAT™ performance in low performing candidates.
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