Firefighters are taking part in a fitness programme designed by the Fife Sports & Leisure Trust.
The fire and rescue service has teamed up with the trust to maintain and improve fitness levels.
Fitness advisers worked with the fire service to find out what was expected of firefighters and designed a programme to replicate tasks such as lifting and dragging.
Taster sessions are being delivered at stations across Fife, with equipment such as sand bags and power sleds being provided by the trust, and so far they have been very well received.
Bert Stewart, group manager for Fife Fire and Rescue Service, said, “Although maintaining fitness levels has always been a requirement for operational firefighters, we were keen to introduce a new approach to our fitness strategy.
“We are delighted with the expertise and advice the trust has delivered. Its advisers have produced a programme that will help us develop the right kind of fitness training for a fitter and healthier workforce.”
The partnership was brought about with funding from NHS Fife’s health improvement budget.
Emma Broadhurst, council physical activity and legacy manager, said, “There is lots of evidence to show that a fitter and healthier workforce results in less sickness absence, so it is important for employees and employers to take responsibility for general wellbeing.
“The trust has been able to give the fire service a template to work from so it can provide the right kind of equipment and training on a long-term basis.”
Trust programme and events manager Jacquie Stringer said, “The feedback from firefighters taking part has been really positive.”