[celticlass]

I hope this isn't to silly of a question.My name is Ruth. I just turned 35 y/o this year.I was a volunteer firefighter/EMT for approx 11 years. I moved to the "big city" about 5 years ago and as there are no volunteer fire opportunites here I kind of let it go. Well you all know how the fire service just gets into your blood. I am missing it all totally. I figured I was really bad off when I started missing ladder drills. Anyway, with some gentle nudging from people around me I realized that firefighting is a passion for me. I really need to start working out and studying some so I can start testing. One of the things I was hoping I could get some input on is am I trying to do this to late in my life or is this still a feasible dream? Also if anyone has suggestions on some good workouts I can do at home I would really appreciate it.
Thank you so much.

[ltmalinski]

Ruth,
I know that you can achieve whatever you put your mind to. Some departments have maximum age limits so check before you pick one.

As for exercise, there are a lot of posts here for the CPAT preparation, good stuff. I like to focus on pushups, the Army made me do them for years, and they really are a good upper body and abdominal work-out. Go all the way down to the ground (chest touching the ground) and all the way up. Try doing them with your arms brushing the sides of your body as well as "wide-arm" ones, they work different muscle groups. It's OK to do them on your knees to start with, to get your form and strength built up, but try to do as many as you can straight before going toyour knees.
You can do this, because you love it.
Jenn

[Bombera5522]

I think exercise is the best advice but also keep in mind that no matter how good of shape your in, injuries will and can occur. Just know your limitations and increase weight exercise to raise those limitations. Sometimes you push yourself to far and you pull or strain your muscles. I had that happen to me several months ago and my shoulder is still bothering me and is effecting my arm muscle to the point I cant do push ups with my right arm. I have to see a specialist to find out what I can do to alleviate my pain. My thumb was jammed 4 years ago and to this day still is sore. But I guess these aches and pain comes with the territory. But try to work safe and smart.
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If you do your best, then no one can ask for more...but they will!!!!