Relationship between Body Mass Index, Dynamic Balance, and Core Muscle Endurance in Firefighter Candidates: A Cross-Sectional Study

This study aimed to examine the effects of Body Mass Index (BMI) on dynamic balance and core muscle endurance in firefighter candidates. In physically demanding professions, such as firefighting, understanding the impact of BMI on physical performance metrics is crucial for both occupational safety and effectiveness. The study was conducted with 89 firefighter candidates, with a gender distribution of 23.6% female (n=21, age 19.86±1.86 years, height 1.64±0.05 m, weight 59.47±7.26 kg) and 76.4% male (n=68, age 19.82±1.25 years, height 1.78±0.04 m, weight 74.36±12.09 kg). Within the scope of the research, the results of the BMI, balance, and core muscle endurance tests were evaluated. BMI was calculated based on measurements of participant height and weight. Dynamic balance performance was assessed using the Y-Balance Test, while core muscle endurance was measured using the plank test. The performances of the participants in both tests were recorded and subjected to statistical analysis. Pearson correlation analysis and multiple regression models were used to examine the relationships among BMI, dynamic balance, and core muscle endurance. The findings indicated that an increase in BMI has adverse effects on balance and core muscle endurance performance. Specifically, firefighter candidates with higher BMI values exhibited shorter plank durations (females: r=-0.63; p=0.002, males: r=-0.566; p<0.001) and lower scores on balance tests (females: r=-0.508; p=0.019, males: r=-0.435; p<0.001). These observations underscore the necessity of effectively managing BMI to maximize the health and occupational performance of firefighter candidates. The findings of this study that training programs for firefighter candidates should include BMI management, balance training, and core strengthening exercises. In conclusion, this study makes significant contributions toward improving firefighting training and safety standards by presenting methods with the potential to enhance the physical fitness and professional preparedness of firefighter candidates.

This study examines the impact of BMI on balance and core endurance in firefighter candidates.