The Candidate Physical Ability Test (CPAT) preparation guide

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Physical Fitness in the Fire Services

Physical Fitness in the Fire Services

What is physical fitness in the Fire Service?

Physical fitness is the ability to perform physical activities, such as job tasks, with enough reserve for emergency situations and to enjoy normal activities when off duty. This guide was developed to assist you with physically preparing yourself for the test.

What are the major areas of fitness?

The major areas of physical fitness include:

  • Flexibility
  • Cardiopulmonary endurance
  • Muscular strength
  • Muscular endurance

Body composition is also considered an area of physical fitness. It should be noted that excess body fat increases the workload placed upon the body and decreases the body's ability to dissipate heat.

A proper physical fitness program should be specific for the job of a Firefighter. It should include all of the major areas of physical fitness mentioned above and be a total body program. Although this is best accomplished at a gym with an array of equipment, this guide also includes exercises that require little or no equipment.

Hydration

Proper hydration is critical. All candidates should drink water before exercise, during exercise and after exercise. Additionally, you should drink at least one liter of water one hour before your CPAT.

Warm-up & Flexibility

Warm-up

A warm-up serves several functions, including:

  • Increased blood flow to working muscles and joints
  • Decreased likelihood of injury
  • Decrease in pre-event tension
  • Possible improved performance
  • Improved flexibility

A proper warm-up should begin with a few minutes of the same type of activity you are about to do at a very light exertion level. For example, if you are preparing to go running you should run in place or for a short distance at a very easy pace.

The next step is to stretch to improve flexibility and further your warm-up. There are two phases of stretching. The first phase is the easy stretch. In this phase, you should hold the stretch for 10 seconds in a range of motion that produces only mild tension. This prepares you for the second phase, the developmental stretch. In this phase, you should move slightly farther to the point where you feel a little more tension. This should be held for another 10 seconds.

Flexibility

When stretching follow these basic rules:

  • Stretch slowly
  • No bouncing
  • No pain
  • Stretching is not competitive
  • Breathe slowly to help you relax
  • Stretching should feel good

Video: CPAT (Candidate Physical Ability Test)

The job of a Firefighter is one of the most physically demanding jobs in North America. It requires high levels of cardiopulmonary endurance, muscular strength and muscular endurance. The Candidate Physical Ability Test (CPAT) consists of eight critical physical tasks that simulate actual job duties on the fire ground. This test is physically demanding and requires that you be physically fit to be successful. The following video is available in English only. A French transcript is available.

Visual: Introduction Slides with logos, bulleted lists, and short clips of various exercises

The IAFF IAFC Fire Service joint labour-management candidate physical ability test (CPAT) consists of eight separate events performed in a continuous sequence. The events in order are the stair climb, the hose drag, the equipment carry, the ladder raise and extension, the forcible entry, the search, the rescue, and the ceiling breach and pull. You will be required to progress along a predetermined path from event to event in a continuous manner.

Since the inception of the CPAT, the task force has protected the integrity of the test through a strict licensing procedure. To date, more than 500 fire departments and jurisdictions are licensed and therefore approved to use the test. The International Association of Firefighters and International Association of Fire Chiefs, in accordance with a conciliatory agreement reached with the US Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, requires departments to offer two CPAT orientation sessions and two timed practice runs as a mandatory condition for using the CPAT program to hire firefighter candidates.

Visual: Clips of people doing various firefighting exercises (dragging a dummy, walking a stair climber, carrying tools, lifting a ladder)

All departments using the CPAT must offer these orientations and practice sessions equally to all candidates. At least eight weeks prior to administering the CPAT, you will be offered the first of two orientation sessions which include access to the official CPAT equipment. Certified peer fitness trainers, fitness professionals, and/or CPAT trained firefighters will be present to help you become familiar with and prepare for the test. In addition, you will be given no less than two timed practice runs on the CPAT course within 30 days of testing. These standard operating procedures provide full and equal access to the CPAT program and will improve your success rate on the test. If you feel you are ready to take the test and don't need to attend the orientation sessions or practice runs, you may choose to sign a written waiver acknowledging that you voluntarily waive your participation in these sessions.

The candidate physical ability test events and equipment were designed to standard specifications. While the order of events and lengths between events will remain the same, in order to conform to the fire department's test area, your course layout may vary. The CPAT course may be setup indoors or outdoors.

Visual: Candidate putting on described personal protective equipment and clothing.

You must successfully complete all eight events in ten minutes and twenty seconds or less. This is a pass/fail test. Disqualification on one event or a total test time exceeding ten minutes and twenty seconds will constitute a failure and the test will be concluded. Throughout the test, you will wear a 50-pound vest to simulate the weight of the self-contained breathing apparatus and the firefighters protective clothing. A hard hat with a chin strap and work gloves will be issued to you for your safety and must be worn for the duration of the test. Watches and loose jewelry will not be permitted. It is a requirement that you wear long pants and proper footwear; footwear with an open heel or an open toe may not be worn.

Visual: Clips of candidate doing firefighting exercises with a proctor (coach) watching.

The events are placed in a sequence that best simulates their use in a fire scene. Each event is connected by an 85-foot walk. This will allow you approximately 20 seconds to recover before the next event. To ensure the highest level of safety and to prevent exhaustion, you must walk between events. Running between events will result in a warning. A second infraction will constitute disqualification and your test will be concluded. A proctor will follow, not lead you, throughout the test. The purpose of the lead proctor is to time your performance, monitor your safety, and provide you with instructions during the events. Additional Proctors will be present during the events.

Event one: stair climb

Visual: Candidate putting on weighted vest and pads.

This event is designed to simulate the critical tasks of climbing stairs in full protective clothing while carrying a high-rise pack or hose bundle. An additional 25 pounds of weight will be added only during the stair climb event totalling 75 pounds to simulate the weight of the firefighters protective clothing, the self-contained breathing apparatus, and a high-rise pack or hose bundle.

Visual: Candidate walking on a mechanical stair climber while being monitored by two proctors.

You will walk on the step mill for 3 minutes and 20 seconds. Immediately prior to the initiation of the timed candidate physical ability test, you will have 20 seconds to warm up on and become familiar with the step mill at a preset rate of 50 steps per minute. This 20-second warmup is not counted in your total test time. During the twenty second warmup, you will be permitted to dismount, grasp the rail or touch the wall to establish balance and cadence. If you fall or dismount the step mill, you must remount and start the entire twenty second warmup period. You will be allowed to restart the warm-up period two times. If you dismount or fall off the equipment three times during the warmup period, you will be disqualified, and your test will be concluded. The warmup period and the time test are continuous there is no break between the warmup period and the timed test. Time begins when the Proctor says go and the rate of the step mill will be increased to a preset rate of 60 steps per minute. You will be required to walk on the step mill at this preset rate for three minutes. Just prior to the three-minute mark, the proctor will inform you that the step mill event is about to end. After three minutes have elapsed, the step mill will stop. You will dismount, the two weights totalling 25 pounds will be removed, and you will walk to the next event. If you fall, grasp any of the test equipment, or dismount the step mill after the timed candidate physical ability test begins, you will be disqualified, and your test will be concluded. During the time test you are permitted to momentarily touch the wall or handrail for balance. However, you will be given a warning if the wall or handrail is touched or grasped for an extended period of time or if the wall or handrail is used for weight bearing. Two warnings will be allowed. A third infraction will constitute a disqualification and your test will be concluded.

Event two: hose drag

Visual : Firefighters pulling a hose from a truck

This event is designed to simulate the critical tasks of extending an uncharged toes line from the fire apparatus to the fire occupancy and pulling the uncharged hose line around obstacles while you remain stationary.

Visual: Candidate completing hose pull in a gymnasium around red metal drums while being monitored by two proctors.

You will grasp the hose nozzle attached to two hundred feet of one and three-quarter inch hose. You will place the length of the hose line eight feet or less over your shoulder or across your chest. You will drag the hose 75 feet to a pre-positioned drum, make a 90-degree turn around the drum, and continue to the finish line. You are permitted to run while dragging the hose. This is the only event in which you are permitted to run. If you fail to go around the drum or go outside of the marked path, your test will be concluded. After you cross the finish line you will stop within the marked box, turn to face the hose line, and drop to at least one knee. You will then pull 50 feet of hose as indicated by a marking on the hose to the finish line. The mark on the hose line must pass the established finish line. Upon completion of this event, you will walk 85 feet along the established walkway to the next event. During the hose pull, you must remain on at least one knee within the marked boundary lines at all times. If you fail to do so, you will receive a warning. The second time you move outside of the boundary or fail to maintain at least one knee in contact with the ground will constitute a disqualification and your test will be concluded.

Event three: equipment carry

Visual : Firefighters carrying tools in a smoke filled street

This event is designed to simulate the critical tasks of removing power tools from a fire apparatus, carrying them to an emergency scene, and returning them to the fire apparatus.

Visual: Candidate carrying two chainsaws from a shelf around a barrel while being monitored by two proctors.

You will remove the two saws, one at a time, from the cabinet and place them on the ground. You will then simultaneously pick up one saw in your left hand and one saw in your right hand and carry them while walking 75 feet around a drum and back to the starting point. You will then place both saws on the ground; pick up one saw at a time and return each saw to its designated space in the cabinet. Upon completion of this event, you will walk 85 feet along the established walkway to the next event. During the equipment carry, you are allowed to stop, place the saws on the ground, and adjust your grip; however, if you drop either saw on the ground during the carry you will be disqualified and your test will be concluded. Throughout the equipment carry you must walk; you will receive one warning for running. A second infraction will constitute disqualification and your test will be concluded.

Event four: ladder raise and extension

Visual : Ladder extending against a smoke filled building

This event is designed to simulate the critical tasks of placing a ground ladder at a fire structure and extending the ladder to a roof or window.

Visual: Candidate raising an aluminum ladder while being monitored by two proctors.

You will walk to the end of a 24 foot aluminum extension ladder positioned on the ground, lift the top rung of the unhinged end of the ladder from the ground, and walk it up in a hand over hand fashion using each rung of the ladder until the ladder rests against the wall. If you miss any rung during the raise, you will receive a warning. If you miss a rung after receiving a warning or if you allow the ladder to fall to the ground or the safety line yard is activated due to completely losing your grip during the raise, you will be disqualified and your test will be concluded. After successfully completing the ladder raise, you will proceed immediately to a second pre-positioned and secured 24-foot aluminum extension ladder. You will extend the fly section by pulling on the rope halyard hand over hand until it hits the stop. You will then lower the fly section hand over hand in a controlled fashion and return the ladder to its original starting position. Upon completion of this event, you will walk 85 feet along the established walkway to the next event. You must fully extend the ladder and maintain control of the ladder using the rope halyard in a hand over hand manner at all times. Failing to do so or allowing the rope powder to slip in an uncontrolled manner will result in a disqualification and your test will be concluded. During the ladder extension, you must remain within the marked boundary lines. If you fail to do so, you will receive a warning. A second infraction will constitute disqualification and your test will be concluded.

Event 5: forcible entry

Visual : Firefighter using a sledgehammer to open a door in a smoke filled home.

This event is designed to simulate the critical tasks of using force to open a locked door or to breach a wall.

Visual: Candidate striking a metal pad while being monitored by two proctors.

You will use a 10-pound sledgehammer to strike the measuring device in the target area until the buzzer is activated. You will then place the sledgehammer on the ground. Upon completion of this event, you will walk 85 feet along the established walkway to the next event. If while swinging the sledgehammer, you lose control of the sledgehammer and release it from both hands you will be disqualified, and your test will be concluded.

Event 6: search

Visual: Firefighter climbing into a window of a smoke filled building.

This event is designed to simulate the critical task of searching for a fire victim in limited visibility and in an unpredictable area.

Visual: Candidate crawling through a dark tunnel maze.

You will crawl on your hands and knees through a tunnel maze that is 64 feet long and approximately 3 feet high and 4 feet wide. While in the tunnel, you will navigate around over and under obstacles. In addition, at two locations, you will crawl through narrowed portions where the dimensions of the tunnel have been reduced. Upon completion of this event, you will walk 85 feet along the established walkway to the next event. Throughout the maze, your movement will be monitored. If for any reason you choose to end the event, you may call out or rap sharply on the wall or ceiling of the tunnel and you will be assisted out. Requiring assistance while in the maze, including the opening of an escape hatch or the entrance or exit cover, will result in disqualification and your test will be concluded.

Event 7: rescue

Visual: Firefighter dragging a colleague out of a building

This event is designed to simulate the critical task of removing a victim or injured partner from a fire scene.

Visual: Candidate dragging a mannequin around a metal drum while being monitored by two proctors.

You will grasp one or both handles of the shoulder harness attached to a 165-pound mannequin and drag it 35 feet around a pre-positioned drum, make a 180-degree turn around the drum, and continue an additional 35 feet until the entire mannequin has been dragged completely past the finish line. Upon completion of this event, you will walk 85 feet along the established walkway to the next event. During the rescue event, you are allowed to stop and adjust your grip if needed. The mannequin is permitted to come in contact with the drum; however, if you touch or rest on the drum at any time you will be given a warning. A second interaction will constitute a disqualification and your test will be concluded. Remember the entire mannequin must be dragged past the marked finish line to complete the event.

Event eight: ceiling breach and pull

Visual: Firefighters pull down ceiling material in a building with smoke coming from the roof

This event is designed to simulate the critical task of breaching and pulling down a ceiling to check for fire extension.

Visual: Candidate using a hooked pole to push and pull a weight over their head while being monitored by two proctors.

You will remove the pike pole from the bracket, stand within the boundary established by the equipment frame, and place the tip of the pole on the painted area of the hinged door in the ceiling. You will push up fully with the pike pole on the hinge door in the ceiling three times, then you will hook the pike pole to the ceiling device and pull down the counterbalance lever five times. Three pushes and five pulls constitute one complete set. You will be required to perform four entire sets. If you drop the pole, you must pick it up by yourself and resume the event. You will be permitted to drop the pike pole to the ground only once. Dropping the pike pole to the ground a second time will constitute disqualification and your test will be concluded. If you do not successfully complete a repetition, the proctor will call out miss and you must push or pull the apparatus to complete the repetition. If you do not repeat the missed repetition, the entire set will not count. If you step outside the frame during this event, you will receive a warning. A second infraction will constitute disqualification and your test will be concluded. In this case you will not receive any warning. You are permitted, if needed, to stop and adjust your grip. Should you release your grip or should your hand slip from the pipe pole without the pole falling to the ground, you should re-establish your grip and resume the event.

Visual: Organization Logos and text on screen

This concludes the description of all eight events in the IAFF IAFC joint labour management candidate physical ability test. Remember, this is a timed test. You must pace yourself and be prepared to complete all eight events in order with a total test time that does not exceed 10 minutes and 20 seconds.

General principles of exercise

To maximize the results from your training program, several exercise principles should be understood.

Adaptation

Adaptation means that the body can adjust to any overload as long as it is done in small increments. The amount of progress the body can make depends on adequate rest, consistency of workouts, adequate nutrition, and genetic makeup.

Overload

Overload, in exercise training programs, means that a training program causes the body to adapt only when the demands are greater than what the body is accustomed to doing. This does not mean that the overload is greater than your maximum, rather overload is generally greater than 75% of your maximal effort.

Progression

The principle of progression states that as the body adapts to the exercise program you must gradually increase the overload to continue to adapt. It is critical that all progressions are gradual and small in nature to prevent over loading the body's ability to recover.

Specificity

Specificity of training is the principle that your body will adapt to whatever exercises you perform. This means that if you only perform bench presses, your body will not adapt to sit-ups. It may, therefore, be beneficial for you to alter your training to prepare for the Candidate Physical Ability Test.

Over-Training

Over-training addresses the body's need for adequate rest and nutrition following exercise to recuperate before the next exercise session. If recuperation is not adequate, over-training will occur. Signs of over training include: increased injury rate, increased resting heart rate, muscle soreness that does not subside after 48 hours, apathy, insomnia, loss of appetite, lack of adaptation to exercise, and loss of strength. Over-training must be avoided.

Balance

When developing a strength training program, it is important to balance muscle development by including exercises that train all major muscle groups of the body. This means that if the chest is trained so must the back; similarly if the upper body is trained so must the legs. When this principle is not followed, joints become imbalanced, and injuries occur.

Cardiopulmonary Endurance Program

Cardiopulmonary endurance is the ability of the cardiovascular and respiratory systems to deliver oxygen to working muscles. It consists of both aerobic and anaerobic energy systems.

Aerobic Fitness

During aerobic activities, the intensity of the exercise is low enough for the cardiopulmonary system to meet the oxygen demands of the working muscles. Aerobic activities include bicycling, hiking, swimming, climbing stairs, and running when performed at a low enough intensity.

Anaerobic Fitness

During anaerobic activities, the intensity of exercise is so high that the working muscle's demands for oxygen exceed the cardiopulmonary system's ability to deliver it. Because adequate oxygen is not available, waste products accumulate. This type of intense activity can only be short in duration. An example of an anaerobic activity is sprinting.

The CPAT Training Program

The CPAT Training program consists of two training programs. The first program is the aerobic training program and the interval program. Both of these programs complement each other and improve your aerobic and anaerobic fitness specific to the Candidate Physical Ability Test.

Aerobic Training

The cardiopulmonary endurance program should begin at a level that is considered "moderately difficult" but not "difficult". Your intensity should not be so high that you cannot speak during the exercise. The program below consists of a series of progressive levels. As you adapt to each step, you should move up to the next level. This program should be done 3 to 5 days per week.

Interval Training

Interval training involves a repeated series of exercise activities interspersed with rest or relief periods. This is an excellent tool for improving both aerobic and anaerobic endurance. In this program running intervals are performed on Tuesdays and Thursdays. It is important that interval days have at least one day of slow easy running between them. This provides the recovered necessary to prevent over training.

General principles of exercise (2)

Level 1

  • Monday 
    • Run 1 mile at an easy pace being sure to be able to talk the entire time.
  • Tuesday
    • Run 30 seconds at somewhat hard pace, then walk for 30 seconds. Repeat this for a total of 1 mile.
  • Wednesday
    • Run 1 mile at an easy pace being sure to be able to talk the entire time.
  • Thursday
    • Run 30 seconds at somewhat hard pace then walk for 30 seconds. Repeat this for a total of 1 mile.
  • Friday
    • Run 1 mile at an easy pace being sure to be able to talk the entire time.

Level 2

  • Monday
    • Run 1.5 miles at an easy pace being sure to be able to talk the entire time.
  • Tuesday
    • Run 30 seconds at somewhat hard pace then walk for 30 seconds. Repeat this for a total of 1.5 miles.
  • Wednesday
    • Run 1.5 miles at an easy pace being sure to be able to talk the entire time.
  • Thursday
    • Run 30 seconds at somewhat hard pace then walk for 30 seconds. Repeat this for a total of 1.5 miles.
  • Friday
    • Run 1.5 miles at an easy pace being sure to be able to talk the entire time.

Level 3

  • Monday
    • Run 2 miles at an easy pace being sure to be able to talk the entire time.
  • Tuesday
    • Run 60 seconds at somewhat hard pace then walk for 60 seconds. Repeat this for a total of 2 miles.
  • Wednesday
    • Run 2 miles at an easy pace being sure to be able to talk the entire time.
  • Thursday
    • Run 60 seconds at somewhat hard pace then walk for 60 seconds. Repeat this for a total of 2 miles.
  • Friday
    • Run 2 miles at an easy pace being sure to be able to talk the entire time.

Level 4

  • Monday
    • Run 2.5 miles at an easy pace being sure to be able to talk the entire time.
  • Tuesday
    • Run 60 seconds at somewhat hard pace then walk for 60 seconds. Repeat this for a total of 2.5 miles.
  • Wednesday
    • Run 2.5 miles at an easy pace being sure to be able to talk the entire time.
  • Thursday
    • Run 60 seconds at somewhat hard pace then walk for 60 seconds. Repeat this for a total of 2.5 miles.
  • Friday
    • Run 2.5 miles at an easy pace being sure to be able to talk the entire time.

Level 5

  • Monday
    • Run 3 miles at an easy pace being sure to be able to talk the entire time.
  • Tuesday
    • Run 90 seconds at somewhat hard pace then walk for 90 seconds. Repeat this for a total of 3 miles.
  • Wednesday
    • Run 3 miles at an easy pace being sure to be able to talk the entire time.
  • Thursday
    • Run 90 seconds at somewhat hard pace then walk for 90 seconds. Repeat this for a total of 3 miles.
  • Friday
    • Run 3 miles at an easy pace being sure to be able to talk the entire time.

Level 6

  • Monday
    • Run 3 miles at an easy pace being sure to be able to talk the entire time.
  • Tuesday
    • Run at easy pace for 3 minutes then run stairs moderately hard for 1 minute.
  • Wednesday
    • Run 1.5 miles at an easy pace.
  • Thursday
    • Run at easy pace for 3 minutes then run stairs moderately hard for 1 minute.
  • Friday
    • Run 3 miles at an easy pace being sure to be able to talk the entire time.

Level 7

  • Monday
    • Run 3 miles at an easy pace being sure to be able to take the entire time.
  • Tuesday
    • Run at an easy pace for 3 minutes then run stairs moderately hard for 90 seconds.
  • Wednesday
    • Run 1.5 miles at an easy pace.
  • Thursday
    • Run at an easy pace for 3 minutes then run stairs moderately hard for 90 seconds.
  • Friday
    • Run 3 miles at an easy pace being sure to be able to talk the entire time.

Level 8

  • Monday
    • Run 3 miles at an easy pace being sure to be able to take the entire time.
  • Tuesday
    • Run at an easy pace for 3 minutes then run stairs moderately hard for 2 minutes.
  • Wednesday
    • Run 1.5 miles at an easy pace.
  • Thursday
    • Run at an easy pace for 3 minutes then run stairs moderately for 2 minutes.
  • Friday
    • Run 3 miles at an easy pace being sure to be able to talk the entire time.

Level 9

  • Monday
    • Run 3 miles at an easy pace being sure to be able to talk the entire time.
  • Tuesday
    • Run at an easy pace for 3 minutes then run stairs moderately hard for 2 minutes and 30 seconds.
  • Wednesday
    • Run 1.5 miles at any pace.
  • Thursday
    • Run at an easy pace for 3 minutes then run stairs moderately hard for 2 minutes and 30 seconds.
  • Friday
    • Run 3 miles at an easy pace being sure to be able to talk the entire time.

Level 10

  • Monday
    • Run 3 miles at an easy pace being sure to be able to talk the entire time.
  • Tuesday
    • Run at an easy pace for 3 minutes then run stairs moderately hard for 3 minutes.
  • Wednesday
    • Run 1.5 miles at an easy pace.
  • Thursday
    • Run at an easy pace for 3 minutes then run stairs moderately hard for 3 minutes.
  • Friday
    • Run 3 miles at an easy pace being sure to be able to talk the entire time.

Stretches

Knee to Chest

Glutes, Low Back, Hamstrings, Quadriceps

  • Lay flat on back with knees bent
  • Grab under right thigh and straighten right leg. Do not lock knee
  • Hold for 10 seconds, then pull slightly farther until you feel slightly more tension
  • Hold this position for 10 seconds
  • Repeat with other leg
  • Repeat sequence 2 or 3 times

Knee to Chest-Diagonal

Glutes, Low Back, Hamstrings, Quadriceps, Piriformis

  • Lay flat on back with knees bent
  • Grab under right thigh and pull right knee toward left chest until you feel mild tension
  • Hold for 10 seconds, then pull slightly farther until you feel slightly more tension
  • Hold this position for 10 seconds
  • Repeat with other left
  • Repeat sequence 2 or 3 times

Leg Cross

Piriformis, Glutes, Lower Back

  • Lay on left side
  • Grab right shin, just above your right ankle
  • Slowly pull right foot toward right buttock while pushing right hip forward
  • Hold for 10 seconds, then pull slightly farther until you feel slightly more tension
  • Hold this position for 10 seconds
  • Repeat with other leg
  • Repeat sequence 2 or 3 times

Butterfly Stretch

Groin, Lower Back

  • Sit upright with the bottoms of feet touching each other
  • Bend forward at the waist to a position where you feel mile tension
  • Elbows can be used to push down on thighs if you want more stretch
  • Hold for 10 seconds, then pull slightly farther until you feel slightly more tension
  • Hold this position for 10 seconds
  • Repeat sequence 2 or 3 times

Straddle Stretch

Groin, Hamstrings, Low Back

  • Sit upright with legs straight
  • Spread legs as far as you comfortably can
  • Keepings legs straight, but not locking knees, bend forward at the waist
  • Hold for 10 seconds then push down slightly farther until you feel slightly more tension
  • Hold this position for 10 seconds
  • Return to starting position
  • Repeat sequence, but this time take chest toward left knee
  • Return to the starting position and repeat sequence toward right knee
  • Repeat entire sequence 2 or 3 times

Stretches (2)

Cross Over Stretch

Glutes, Iliotibial Band

  • Sit with legs straight in from of you
  • Bend right leg and cross it over so you can grab around the outside of right thigh
  • Slowly pull bent right leg toward chest until you feel mild tension
  • Hold for 10 seconds then push slightly farther until you feel slightly more tension
  • Hold this position for 10 seconds
  • Return to starting position and switch legs
  • Repeat sequence on opposite leg
  • Repeat sequence 2 or 3 times

Calf Stretch

Calves

  • Squat down on ground with right foot slightly in from of the left
  • Grasp right shin and rock forward until you feel mild tension
  • Hold for 10 seconds, then push slightly farther until you feel slightly more tension
  • Hold this position for 10 seconds
  • Repeat sequence on opposite leg
  • Repeat sequence 2 or 3 times

Upper Back Stretch

Upper back, Posterior Deltoids

  • Sit with legs straight in front
  • Twist your upper back crossing left arm across chest and place right hand on the floor
  • Slowly twist until you feel mild tension
  • Hold for 10 seconds, then twist slightly farther until you feel slightly more tension
  • Hold this position for 10 seconds
  • Return to starting position and twist to the left side
  • Repeat sequence 2 or 3 times

Chest Stretch

Chest, Shoulders, Biceps

  • Stand with right shoulder against a wall
  • Place right palm on the wall
  • Slowly turn your body away from the wall until you feel mild tension
  • Hold for 10 seconds, then twist slightly farther until you feel slightly more tension
  • Return to starting position and repeat sequence with left arm
  • Repeat sequence 2 or 3 times

Triceps Stretch

Triceps, Posterior Deltoids

  • Stand upright and extend right arm over head
  • Grab right elbow with left hand and place right hand on right shoulder blade
  • Slowly push right elbow backward until mild tension is felt
  • Hold for ten seconds, then push slightly farther until you feel slightly more tension
  • Return to starting position and repeat sequence with left arm
  • Repeat sequence 2 or 3 times

Forearm Stretch

Forearms

  • Stand upright and grab right fingers with left hand
  • Slowly fold right wrist backwards until mild tension is felt
  • Hold for 10 seconds, then push slightly farther until you feel slightly more tension
  • Repeat sequence, this time folding wrist forwards
  • Return to starting position and repeat sequence with left arm
  • Repeat entire sequence 2 or 3 times

Exercises without weights

Although it is easier to improve muscular strength and endurance with weight equipment, it is also possible to accomplish this with some simple exercises. These exercises require minimum equipment and can be done almost anywhere. Perform these exercises in a circuit. Move from one exercise to the next with minimal rest. Initially, work in the somewhat hard range. This means do not exercise to failure. Start by going through the circuit one time and then gradually progress until you can complete this circuit three times in a row.

Chair Squats

Glutes, Quadriceps, Hamstrings

CPAT Events: Stair Climb, Hose Drag, Ladder Raise, Forcible Entry, Search, Rescue Ceiling Pull and Breach

Stand in front of a sturdy and stable chair with legs shoulder width apart and toes pointing slightly outward.

  • Hold arms out straight in front of you
  • Slowly lower your buttocks into the chair
  • As soon as you feel the slightest contact with the chair, slowly stand back up to the starting position
  • Keep your head in a neutral position
  • Inhale while lowering yourself and exhale while standing up

Push Ups

Pectorals, Deltoids, Triceps, Low Back

CPAT Events: Ladder Raise, Forcible Entry, Search, Ceiling Breach and Pull

Place hands on ground shoulder width apart or slightly more. Keep feet together and back straight throughout the exercise.

  • Lower the body until the upper arms are at least parallel to the ground
  • Push yourself up to the initial position by completely straightening arms
  • Inhale while lowering and exhale while pushing

Split-Squats

Glutes, Quadriceps, Hamstrings, Calves

CPAT Events: Stair Climb, Hose Drag, Ladder Raise, Forcible Entry, Search, Rescue, Ceiling Pull and Breach

Stand with feet together then step backward with foot about 26" behind left foot.

  • Keep back straight and arms down at side with head neutral, slowly lower right knee straight down onto the floor
  • Inhale while lowering and exhale while pushing back up into upright position
  • Forward leg should remain vertical throughout motion, with knee directly over ankle. If knee tends to move forward over the toes, adjust back foot further backward
  • Repeat with other leg.

Chin Ups

Latissimus dorsi, Rhomboids, Posterior Delts, Biceps

CPAT Events: Hose Drag, Ladder Extension, Forcible Entry, Rescue, Ceiling Pull and Breach

  • Grasp horizontal bar with palms facing you and hands 6" apart
  • Hang from bar with arms fully extended
  • Pull yourself upward until your chin is above the bar
  • Do not kick or swing your legs
  • Return to the starting position
  • Inhale while lowering yourself and exhale while pulling yourself up
  • If unable to complete 3 chin ups, elevate yourself to the bar with a stool or a partner, and slowly lower yourself down in a slow and controlled fashion

Bench Steps

Glutes, Quadriceps, Hamstrings, Calves

CPAT Events: Stair Climb, Hose Drag, Ladder Raise, Forcible Entry, Search, Rescue, Ceiling Pull and Breach

This requires good balance, so initially set the step next to a wall or use a partner for safety.

  • Use a step or bench 6" to 18" high
  • Place right foot flat on the bench with the left foot flat on the floor
  • Push down with the foot on the bench and step up until both legs are straight
  • Slowly lower yourself back down to the starting position
  • Exhale while pushing up and inhale while lowering down
  • Repeat entire sequence with other leg
  • Start with a smaller step and progressively increase the height. Do not exceed 18" high.

Dips

Pectorals, Deltoids, Triceps

CPAT Events: Ladder Raise, Forcible Entry, Search, Ceiling Pull and Breach

  • Place hands behind you on dip bar or chair with feet straight in front
  • Bend arms and lower body in a controlled manner until the upper arms are parallel with the floor
  • Straighten the arms to return to the starting position
  • Legs can be bent to keep feet from touching the floor
  • If unable to perform 3 dips, use a stool or a partner to help you up and then lower yourself down slowly
  • Inhale while lowering yourself and exhale while pushing up

Squat Thrusts

Pectorals, Deltoids, Triceps, Abdominals, Glutes Quadriceps

CPAT Events: Stair Climb, Hose Pull, Ladder Raise, Forcible Entry, Search

  • Stand erect with feet together
  • Quickly bend knees until palms touch the floor just slightly in front of you
  • Supporting weight with arms, tighten your abdominal muscles, and throw your feet backwards until you are in the push up starting position
  • Reverse sequence until you are back at the starting position. This is one repetition.
  • Inhale and exhale evenly throughout the exercise.

Exercises without weights (2)

Abdominal Curls

Abdominal Muscles

CPAT Events: All Events

  • Sit on ground with knees bent at 90 degrees
  • Keeping feet flat on floor and hands at side, slowly curl torso so chin approaches your chest
  • Do not raise torso to more than a 45 degree angle off the floor
  • Slowly return to slightly above your starting position, keeping tension on abdominal muscles at all times
  • Exhale while curling up and inhale while lowering torso back down.

Swimmers

Erector Spinae (Lower Back), Glutes

CPAT Events: All Events

  • Lie face down on ground with feet together
  • Place arms straight out in front of you
  • Move the right arm and left leg up at the same time
  • As you return the right arm and left leg, move the left arm and right leg up at the same time
  • Continue alternating in a moderate cadence.

Hand Grippers

Forearm muscles

CPAT Events: Hose Drag, Equipment Carry, Ladder Extension, Forcible Entry, Rescue, Ceiling Branch and Pull

  • Stand erect
  • Place tennis ball in palm of hand
  • Slowly squeeze hand compressing tennis ball
  • Repeat with the other hand.

Weight training circuit workout

Muscular Strength/Endurance Program

This is a resistance program designed to improve your total body strength and endurance. This is not a bodybuilding or a power-lifting program. It is designed to prepare you specifically for the Candidate Physical Ability Test. If you are not familiar with lifting programs, have any joint pain or feel uncomfortable performing these exercises, you should seek the advice of a professional trainer.

This program is designed to be performed three days a week. This means that you will not be lifting 4 days a week. These rest days are just as important as your workout days. A critical mistake made by some applicants is over training when preparing for the Candidate Physical Ability Test. If you feel you are over training refer back to the exercise principles, slow down your progression, reduce your overload, and allow for adequate rest between workouts.

This workout should follow the previously mentioned warm-up and stretching program. This program is designed to be a circuit workout. Circuit training has been proven to be very effective and an efficient way to improve muscular strength, muscular endurance and cardiovascular endurance. Once you being this workout, you will lift at each station for 10 repetitions and then move onto the next exercise. Rest between exercises should not exceed 30 seconds unless you are experiencing some discomfort. For safety purposes, it is recommended that you lift with a partner and spot each other when necessary.

General Safety Tips While Performing Resistance Training

  • Always with a partner
  • Ask for help from an expert if you don't know what you are doing
  • Progress slowly to avoid injuries
  • Never show off by attempting to lift more weight than you normally lift
  • Use proper lifting techniques when lifting weight plates and dumbbells
  • Never drink alcohol or take medications that may cause drowsiness prior to lifting weights
  • Do not lift too quickly, always control the weights
  • Always use strict form. Proper technique is more important than the amount of weight lifted
  • Keep head in a neutral position, looking straight ahead and not upwards or downwards.

Progression

Unless you are an experienced weightlifter, it is recommended that you begin by doing one complete cycle through this circuit. After the first week, if you are not still getting muscle soreness 24 to 48 hours after your workouts, you can progress to two cycles through the circuit. After the second week, if you are not still getting muscle soreness 24 to 48 hours after your workouts, you can progress to three cycles through the circuit. Although it is not critical, it is recommended that you follow the exercises in order. If, after progressing to the next level, you feel very sore, you may want to decrease the weights and the number of times you complete the circuit.

Weight training circuit workout (2)

Seated Leg Press

Quadriceps, Hamstrings, Glutes, Calves

CPAT Events: Stair Climb, Hose Drag, Ladder Raise, Forcible Entry, Rescue, Ceiling Breach and Pull

Set appropriate weight to overload above muscles but not so heavy as to cause injury or failure.

  • Place feet flat on push platform about shoulder width apart and toes pointed slightly outward
  • Adjust seat so knees are flexed at 90 degrees
  • Push weight up while exhaling
  • Stop just short of locking your knees
  • Keep knees in alignment with feet
  • Keep head in neutral position

DB Military Press

Deltoids, Triceps, Trapezius

CPAT Events: Ladder Raise, Search, Ceiling Breach and Pull

Pick appropriate weight to overload above muscles but not so heavy as to cause injury or failure.

  • Raise two dumbbells to height of shoulders
  • With palms facing forward, alternate pressing each dumbbell upward toward the ceiling, one at a time
  • Exhale while lifting
  • Keep head in neutral position
  • Using slight leg push is acceptable
  • Repeat with the other arm

Lat Pull Down

Latissimus dorsi; Rhomboids, Posterior Deltoids, Biceps

CPAT Events: Hose Drag, Ladder Extension Forcible Entry, Rescue, Ceiling Breach and Pull

Pick appropriate weight to overload above muscles but not so heavy as to cause injury or failure.

  • Adjust seat and leg hold to allow full range of motion
  • Hold bar in chin up grip with hands close together and palms toward face
  • Pull bar straight down to just below the chin
  • Exhale while pulling weight down
  • Return to starting position

DB Split-Squats

Glutes, Quadriceps, Hamstrings, Calves

CPAT Events: Stair Climb, Hose Drag, Ladder Raise, Forcible Entry, Search, Rescue Ceiling Pull and Breach Pick a lightweight (many people can start with no weights at all). Do not start with more than 10 lbs.

  • Stand with feet together then step backward with one foot about 26"
  • Keep back straight and arms down at side with head neutral, slowly bend both legs
  • Lower yourself slowly until your left knee barely touches the floor
  • Forward leg should remain vertical throughout motion with knee directly over ankle. If knee tends to move forward over the toes, adjust back foot further backward
  • Return to the starting position
  • Inhale while lowering and exhale while pushing back up into upright position
  • Repeat with opposite leg

Bench Press

Pectorals, Deltoids, Triceps

CPAT Events: Ladder Raise, Forcible Entry, Search, Ceiling Breach and Pull

Pick appropriate weight to overload above muscles but not so heavy as to cause injury or failure.

  • Lie on bench, feet flat on the floor
  • Hold bar with arms shoulder width apart or slightly wider
  • Lower bar to middle of chest
  • Push bar up to starting position
  • Inhale while lowering and exhale while pushing back up

DB Row

Latisimuss dorsi, Rhomboids, Posterior Deltoids, Trapezius, Biceps

CPAT Events: Hose Pull, Ladder Extension, Forcible Entry, Rescue, Ceiling Breach and Pull

Pick appropriate weight to overload above muscles but not so heavy as to cause injury or failure

  • Standing to right of bench, place left knee on bench and support upper body with left (non lifting) arm
  • Keep head in neutral position
  • Pull DB from ground into waist area with right arm
  • Lower DB back to starting position
  • Avoid twisting at waist
  • Inhale while lowering weight and exhale while lifting weight
  • Repeat sequence on opposite side

Leg Extension

Quadriceps

CPAT Events: Stair Climb, Hose Pull, Ladder Raise, Forcible Entry, Search, Rescue

Pick appropriate weight to overload above muscles but not so heavy as to cause injury or failure.

  • Adjust machine so that backs of knees are against pad and back pad is supporting lower back
  • Extend knees stopping just before the knees lock
  • Slowly lower weight to starting position
  • Exhale while pushing weight and inhale while lowering weight

Note: This exercise should not be performed by individuals who have undergone reconstructive knee surgery.

Weight training circuit workout (3)

Leg Curl

Hamstrings

CPAT Events: Stair Climb, Hose Pull, Ladder Raise, Forcible Entry, Rescue

Pick appropriate weight to overload above muscles but not so heavy as to cause injury or failure

  • Lie flat on machine with top of knees just off the pad and ankle roller situated above the heels
  • Flex the knee until ankle roller reaches the buttocks. Keep hips down and stomach in contact with pad throughout the motion
  • Slowly lower weight to starting position
  • Inhale while pulling weight up and exhale while lowering weight down

DB Curl

Biceps, Forearms

CPAT Events: Hose Drag, Ladder Extension, Forcible Entry, Rescue, Ceiling Breach and Pull

Pick appropriate weight to overload above muscles but not so heavy as to cause injury or failure.

  • Stand up with knees slightly bent
  • Begin with arms down at sides
  • Bend right elbow bringing the dumbbell toward right shoulder
  • Slowly lower dumbbell to starting position
  • Exhale while raising weight and inhale while lowering weight
  • Repeat sequence on opposite side

Tricep Extension

Triceps

CPAT Events: Ladder Raise, Forcible Entry, Search, Ceiling Breach and Pull

  • Pick appropriate weight to overload above muscles but not so heavy as to cause injury or failure
  • Stand up with knees slightly bent
  • Place hands on bar about 6" apart
  • Keeping upper arms at sides, extend the elbows until arms are almost straight and bar is at mid-thigh
  • Slowly return bar to an elbow flexed position at mid-chest level. Upper arms should remain in contact with sides. Do not allow elbows to move forward, away from body
  • Exhale while pushing bar down and inhale while returning bar back up.

Abdominal Curls

Abdominal Muscles

CPAT Events: All Events

  • Sit on ground with knees bent at 90 degrees
  • Keeping feet flat on floor and hands at your side, slowly curl your torso so shin approaches your chest
  • Do no raise torso to more than a 45-degree angle off the floor
  • Slowly return to slightly above your starting position, keeping tension on abdominal muscles at all times
  • Exhale while curling up and inhale while lowering torso back down.

Swimmers

Erector Spinae (Lower Back), Glutes

CPAT Events: All Events

  • Lie face down on ground with feet together
  • Place arms straight out in front
  • Move the right arm and left leg up at the same time
  • As you return the right arm and left leg, move the left arm and right leg up at the same time
  • Continue alternating in a moderate cadence

Wrist Rollers

Forearm muscles

CPAT Events: Hose Drag, Equipment Carry, Ladder Extension, Forcible Entry, Rescue, Ceiling Breach and Pull

  • Stand erect
  • Set machine to "somewhat difficult" resistance
  • Grab machine with both palms facing the floor
  • Alternately roll each wrist towards the ceiling
  • Repeat with palms upward when done

Hand Grippers

Forearm muscles

CPAT Events: Hose Drag, Equipment Carry, Ladder Extension, Forcible Entry, Rescue, Ceiling Breach and Pull

  • Stand erect
  • Set machine to "somewhat difficult" resistance
  • Grab machine with both hands
  • Alternately close grip to squeeze machine

Supplemental task-specific exercise training

The supplementary exercise program presented in the following sections not only makes use of the overload principal of training but also applies the all-important principal of training specificity. Exercise training specificity means that performance improvements occur most readily when training closely resembles the specific physical activity for which improved performance is desired. When training for specific activities requiring high levels of muscular strength and muscular power (e.g. hose drag and pull from kneeling position, ladder raise and extension, sledge hammer swing, dummy drag, and ceiling breach and pull) task-specific muscular overload should accompany a general strength training program. Practice and training in the specific activity becomes crucial because much of the improvement in muscular strength/power performance depends upon skill learning and new muscular adaptations (i.e. coordination of specific muscle actions) required for the physical task. In most instances, training in the actual task proves most effective.

The following program provides examples for applying your general training program to actually performing CPAT tasks. As with your other preparation training, you must progressively upgrade the duration, frequency, and intensity of exercise to continually improve your performance. This will maximize your improvement in performing the CPAT.

In the beginning phase of this training, progress slowly so that you can safely learn the skill and coordination required for the movements. As you become confident in your ability to successfully complete a specific exercise task with relative ease, redirect your training energies to those activities that pose the greatest difficulty. For many people, the stair climb with full weights, forcible entry, and rescue prove the most difficult.

Stair Climb

Exercise

You can readily modify aerobic training to more closely resemble the 3-minute stair climb in the CPAT by performing actual stair-stepping exercise on any conveniently located first step of a staircase, preferably at least 8 inches in height. Step at a rate that permits completion of 24 complete stepping cycles within a one-minute period. A stepping cycle consists of stepping up with one foot, then the other and down with one foot, then the other in a rhythm "up-up, down-down". You must alternate starting foot from right to left. Strive to complete two stepping cycles within a 5-second period.

Progression

Begin training by stepping continuously (unweighted) for 5 minutes. As your fitness improves, complete a second and then third 5 minute exercise bout interspersed with several minutes of recovery. Once you can complete three intervals of 5-minutes of stepping, add weight to your torso in the form of a knapsack to which weights, sand, dirt or rocks has been added. Continue to perform three 5-minute intervals of stepping; progressively add weight to the knapsack as your fitness improves so that you can step with 50 pounds of additional weight. (This 50-pound knapsack and work gloves should be worn in training for all subsequent events of the CPAT.) In addition, carry 10-15 pounds (dumbbell, sand filled plastic contained) in each hand while stepping. The total weight carried (knapsack plus hand-held weights) should equal approximately 75 pounds. At this stage, reduce the duration of the exercise interval to 3 minutes. This task-specific training not only improves aerobic fitness for continuous stepping but it also improves your leg power for stepping in the weighted condition, which represents a unique component of this CPAT item.

Hose Drag

Exercise

Attach 50 feet of rope to a duffel bag to which weight has been added. Tires or cement blocks can also be used for resistance. Choose an initial resistance that enables you to perform 8 to 10 repetitions (2-minute recovery between repetitions) of the exercise sequence. This generally represents an effort that you would rate as feeling "somewhat hard".

Progression

Progressively increase the resistance to 60 to 80 pounds as fitness improves. Place the rope over your shoulder and drag the resistance a distance of 75 feet. (You should run during this phase of the event.) Immediately drop to one knee and steadily and briskly pull the rope hand-over-hand to bring the resistance into your body. A parking lot, schoolyard, driveway, or sidewalk can be used for training on this event.

Equipment Carry

Exercise

Use two dumbbells or plastic containers filled with sand so that each weighs approximately 30 pounds. Place the weights on a shelf four feet above ground level. Remove the weights, one at a time, and place them on the ground. Then pick up the weights and carry them a distance of 40 feet out and 40 feet back and replace them on the shelf.

Progression

If the initial weight feels too heavy, choose a lighter weight for your initial practice. Continue to practice this test item until it can be performed with 30 pounds with relative ease.

Ladder Raise and Extension

Exercise - Ladder Rise

The ideal training for this task requires an actual 12-foot aluminum extension ladder. If this size ladder is unavailable, you can use a single ladder or smaller extension ladder to practice the skill required raising the ladder. Practice of the ladder raise sequence requires the assistance of two adults to "foot" the ladder at its base to prevent it from sliding forward and/or falling during the raise. In practicing this component (as described in the test directions) it is important to initially move slowly so as to develop the skill and confidence to safely complete the required movements. Be sure to use each run when raising the ladder to develop the coordination and timing necessary on the CPAT.

Exercise - Ladder Extension

Task-specific training of the muscles required in the ladder extension can be provided by attaching a rope to a weighted duffel bag or knapsack. Place the rope over a tree branch (or horizontal bar support above a row of playground swings) eight to ten feet above the ground. With hand-over-hand movements steadily raise the bag to the top of the branch or bar and then slowly lower it to the ground.

Progression

Start with a weight that you would rate as feeling "somewhat hard", and perform eight to ten repetitions of the movement. Rest two minutes and repeat the exercise-rest sequence two more times. As your strength improves progressively add more resistance until you can exercise with 40 to 50 pounds of weight.

Forcible Entry

Exercise

Borrow or purchase a ten-pound sledgehammer. Wrap padding around a large tree or vertical pole at a level of 39 inches above the ground with a circular target in the center. Stand sideways and swing the sledgehammer in a level manner so the head strikes the center of the target area. Focus on using your legs and hips to initiate the swinging motion.

Progression

The initial phase of this task-specific training should focus on learning the coordinated movement of your arms and legs to accurately hit the target. Repeat the swing 15 times and rest for two minutes. Repeat this exercise-rest sequence twice again. Strive to increase the velocity (power) of each swing without sacrificing accuracy as your comfort level and skill on this test item improve.

Search

Exercise

Practice crawling on hands and knees (wearing sweat pants and/or knee pads) at least 70 feet while making several right angle turns during the crawl. For the major portion of the crawl keep low enough so as not to contact an object three feet above the ground. Periodically, drop your stomach and crawl ten feet along the ground.

Progression

Once you are comfortable crawling as above repeat the sequence with a knapsack on. Gradually increase the weight within the knapsack until it equals 50 pounds.

Supplemental task-specific exercise training (2)

Rescue

Exercise

Attach a short handle to a duffel bag to which rocks, sand, or other appropriate weight can be progressively added. Start with a weight that feels "somewhat heavy." You can grasp the handle with (a) one hand and drag the "victim" in a cross-over, side-stepping manner, or (b) two hands while facing the "victim" and moving directly backwards while taking short, rapid stagger steps. Drag the weight 35 to 50 feet in one direction turn around and drag it back to the starting point. Complete eight to ten repetitions of this task with a two-minute rest interval between each trial.

Progression

Gradually increase the resistance until you can successfully complete 4 repetitions (with rest interval) with 165 pounds.

Ceiling Breach and Pull

Exercise - Ceiling Breach

Tie a rope to a dumbbell or weighted knapsack placed between your legs, shoulder width apart. Grasp the rope, arms slightly away from the body with one hand at upper-thigh level and the other hand at chest level. Lift upwards and out from the body in an action that simulates thrusting a pole through an overhead ceiling. Use a resistance that feels "somewhat hard", yet enables you to complete three sets of eight repetitions with two-minutes of rest between sets.

Progression

Continually add weight as strength improves. Practice coordinating upward arm movements with an upward extension of the legs to provide a more powerful thrusting action.

Exercise - Ceiling Pull

The training set-up for this simulation is the same as that used in training for the ladder extension. However, unlike the hand-over-hand movement that is required for the ladder extension the ceiling pull requires exerting power in single, repeated downward thrusts. Grasp the rope attached to the weighted knapsack or duffel bag with hands spaced about one-foot apart and the bottom hand at chin level. In a powerful movement simultaneously pull arms down and lower your body to raise weight several feet above the ground. Repeat eight to ten consecutive repetitions of the movement with a resistance that feels "somewhat hard". Complete three sets with a two-minute recovery interval interspersed.

Progression

Progressively add resistance as fitness improves.

As your fitness improves you should begin to link the various test components. For example, immediately upon finishing the stair climb move directly to the hose drag and then to the equipment carry. Eventually, you will be able to simulate all of the task components in the CPAT in a continuous exercise sequence.