Wellness experiences for firefighters and paramedics after an aquatic fitness program

Abstract

Objective: To analyze the experiences and perceptions of subjective well-being among firefighters and paramedics in the municipality of Emiliano Zapata, Morelos, Mexico, after their participation in an aquatic fitness program designed to strengthen their physical, mental, and socio-occupational health. Materials and methods: This was a qualitative study with a phenomenological design, in which semi-structured interviews were conducted with six firefighters and paramedics who completed the 16-week fitness program.

Results: Latent content analysis allowed us to identify that this group of first responders works under highly demanding, stressful, precarious, and sedentary conditions. However, participation in the program generated a perception of well-being among the participants. In the physical dimension, they described improvements in endurance, flexibility, and speed, as well as a decrease in chronic pain. Regarding psychological well-being, the activity improved their mood, self-esteem, and motivation, allowing for a positive reconnection with their own bodies. The impact of the Aquatic Activity Program (AAP) on socio-occupational well-being resulted in improved group dynamics and a perceived improvement in operational performance.

Conclusions: Aquatic physical activity is presented as an effective and rewarding strategy for strengthening the physical and mental health of participants, providing essential subjective resources to cope with the critical demands of their profession.

Keywords: Physical conditioning; Health promotion; Paramedics.