Comparison of swimming versus running maximal aerobic capacity in helicopter rescue paramedics.

Swimming is a critical task for helicopter rescue paramedics and aerobic capacity is assessed in this occupation to determine job suitability. We evaluated one treadmill-based and one pool-based assessment of maximal aerobic capacity (V̇O) in 14 helicopter rescue paramedics. There was a small absolute difference ( = 0.11,  = 0.46) between V̇O in the swim (45.5 ± 7.8 ml.kg.min) compared to the run (48.5 ± 5.5 ml.kg.min), with a moderate relationship noted ( = 0.74, 95% CI [0.35-, 0.91],  = 0.0023). Whilst not interchangeable, run V̇O was a predictor of swim V̇O. Maximal blood lactate was similar ( = 0.93) in swim (13.4 ± 3.8 mmol.L) and run (12.2 ± 3.0 mmol.L), and maximal heart rate 13% lower ( < 0.0001) in the swim (162 ± 11 bpm) versus the run (186 ± 10 bpm). To estimate swimming V̇O in paramedics a treadmill test is sufficient but does not replace assessment of swimming proficiency. : We developed a swim protocol to assess maximal aerobic capacity in helicopter rescue paramedics. Compared to a treadmill-based test, our swim protocol generated 20% lower submaximal V̇O and 6% lower V̇O. Although not interchangeable, a treadmill V̇O test is indicative of maximal aerobic capacity in rescue paramedics whilst swimming. HEMS: helicopter emergency medical service; PES: physical employment standards; ICFP: intensive care flight paramedic; RPE: rating of perceived exertion.