Firefighter Recruit Workout
The Mesa Fire Department Recruit Academy is a structured 5 day, 40 hour per
week program lasting approximately 14 weeks. Recruits receive a total of 34
credit hours from Rio Salado Community College.
Health and fitness course topics include basic aerobic & strength training
principals, nutrition, weight control, environmental impact on work
performance, etc.
The academy fitness program is designed to prepare recruits for the physical
rigors of the job. There are three main daily activities: Aerobics,
Strength training and work hardening.
The academy is divided into skill sets that build on each other. Each skill
set has a specific objective with functional and core strength as the center
piece for all activities. Specific core exercises are incorporated into each
of three daily routines. Flexibility is critical in preventing work
related injuries and stretching is included in every workout. The strength
training component begins with teaching proper lifting technique. Muscular
endurance (light weight with many repetitions) precedes muscular strength
training (heavier weight with less repetitions).