Physical training effect on both the ageing process and the fitness level of firemen

Abstract

This study aimed at investigating the effect of the physical training on both the ageing process and the fitness level of firemen during 7 years. 33-42-year-old men were observed from 1995 to 2002. Cooper’s 12 minutes run/walk test was used for measuring the aerobic capacity, and Matsudo’s 40 seconds test was used for measuring the anaerobic power. The body weight and height measurements were used to determine the body mass index (BMI). These tests were applied in a randomly selected sample of 40 men in 1995, and reapplied in 38 of the 40 men in 2002. The results of Cooper’s 12 minutes test (maximum consumption of oxygen) showed that the physical training helps to maintain the aerobic capacity according to the age. The findings obtained with Matsudo’s 40 seconds test showed a relatively low percentile loss of the anaerobic power in relation to the standard expected. The BMI was practically maintained in the desirable level. According to the results of the research, it can be concluded that the aerobic physical training (running and swimming) and the anaerobic physical training (strength training and soccer) practiced 3 to 4 times a week during 7 years, helps to maintain the fitness level (maximum VO2 and anaerobic power) in 26-35-year-old men (starting age). Besides, it was also concluded that the body mass index was under the standard limit.