So this August we have our annual PAT for our monthly department training. Me and a couple guys on my shift have been working out on shift with focus to the tasks we have to do during the Test. We’ve been doing HIIT workouts that include the Keizer sled, dummy drag and high rise pack while also including some functional lifts with kettle bells, and dumbbells.

Well here’s my Dilemma… our station captain caught word of this and had a talking with us, stating that we need to stop doing these workouts due to his concerns for the departments PAT average times to drop. He stated that if we lower the times the average department times will be lowered and some of the “not as active guys” including himself will have a more difficult time meeting the departments standards if the average time drops.

Granted this is a smaller department with no academy. Most guys here, if not all are lateral transfers from other departments. My concern is. Is this mentality right? I’ve always learned that this job requires you to be in the best shape possible, and I’m afraid that this mentality is not with the department.

I love these guys and love the department, but feel like this type of mentality could be dangerous. Should i consider going to a department that actually puts our physical health as a priority? What are some thoughts on this?