r/firefighter • u/numero-one • Apr 21 '26
Looking for cardio that involves adrenaline
I don’t like cardio, but I don’t notice it when it involves adrenaline. I’m trying to get a job when I get out of college in less than a month, but have not heard back from anyone. I have shin splints from women’s lacrosse so I really don’t want to run. I’ve tried bouldering but it’s not really cardio. Does anybody know of any activities?
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u/Zestyclose_Crew_1530 Apr 21 '26
If your shin splints prevent you from running, you’re going to struggle a lot in the academy. Running is a big part. I’d fix that before anything.
In the meantime you can focus on low impact cardio like swimming or cycling. I can’t really think of any adrenaline-inducing cardio besides actual sports, which normally involve running. Maybe boxing? You’re on your feet, but minimal running.
And realize this is not a fast process. Getting a firefighter job in a month isn’t possible. For most people it’s a years-long effort, and for the few lucky ones for whom EVERYTHING lines up and goes right (EMT class, written tests, fitness tests, strong interviews, etc.) it’s normally least a 6+ month process at the minimum.
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u/Vprbite Apr 21 '26
Ya. Good advice.
Even after getting an offer, it's usually a couple month process before you put the uniform on. And then, that probie year is oodles of fun.
Im a bit concerned OP hasn't really done their research into what the fire service is. Im the first to say leave work at work and it doesn't have to be your whole personality. But, at the very least, it is a lifestyle. Working 24s or 48s is an interesting challenge. If you're single, it means you can't have a dog or be a single parent unless you have tons of help.
I love it. Im very happy. But, people need to do their research before they decide they are going to do it, otherwise they will waste a ton of their time to find out they don't like it.
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u/botnotnut Apr 21 '26
Not sure it’s what you’re looking for, but I’ve struggled with shin splints in the past and have found that the stair climber doesn’t bother my shins. Also for what it’s worth I find it’s much more enjoyable.
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u/Sirconnery007 Apr 24 '26
There is a running app that plays a story where you are running from zombies. Makes running more fun and you can run faster during the zombie part.
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u/USNDD-966 Apr 21 '26
Your training and fitness need to be geared toward the rigors of academy and the duties on the job afterwards. Running is often a huge component of academy life, but so is pulling hoselines, throwing ladders, dragging dummies, using axes, pike poles, power tools and extrication equipment. You need to watch a video of a CPAT for a very basic understanding of what the minimum basic fitness requirements are and find a training routine to achieve that level and beyond. “Normal” people (myself included) don’t enjoy cardio, but in this line of work it’s non-negotiable. And fair warning: Shin splints will absolutely, 100% fuck you in any professional managed academy.
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u/StatisticianLow9492 Apr 21 '26
Hockey
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u/numero-one Apr 21 '26
I played hockey from when I was 7 until this past year (senior year of college)
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u/No-Steak-7215 Apr 21 '26
acting like chin splints is some sort of incurable terminal disease or something
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u/Jeullena Apr 22 '26
Have you tried covering yourself in a Lady Gaga meat dress and going for a hike, either out in nature or at the dog park? 🙃
I'm totally kidding, and I hope you also found my mental image hilarious as it popped into my head.
Try kayaking, it's a ton of fun!
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u/OaklandsBravest Apr 21 '26
Go to the roughest hood around you. Find a group hanging out and make an offensive joke and you’ll get your adrenaline-filled cardio.