Tiger deploys our most recent Base Fitness programming theory for Fire/Rescue Athletes and is the fifth and final plan in the Big Cat Packet of plans for F/R Athletes. This programming is designed to meet the day-to-day fitness demands of full time Fire/Rescue personnel:
- Strength
- Multi-Modal Work Capacity
- Chassis Integrity (Functional Core) & Grip Strength
- Tactical Agility
Tiger is a, 7 week, 4 session/week (28 Total Training Sessions) and has a slight strength and work capacity emphasis. The plan also trains chassis integrity and Tactical Agility
This is Version 2 of this training plan, updated November, 2020.
PROGRAMMING SPECIFICS
Strength
With Tiger we deploy our Big 24 strength programming methodology built around the Push Press and In-Place Lunge. The cycle begins with a strength assessment, and utilizes those results for follow on progressions. You’ll complete a mid-cycle and final strength assessment to track progress and ensure your progression numbers are accurate.
Work Capacity
Tiger trains work capacity 2x/week alternating between 20-minute AMRAP efforts of loaded step ups and 25m shuttles, hard 5-minute repeats of sledge hits on a tire and burpees, and paced 4-5 minute interval repeats of dumbbell/kettlebell 1-Arm Clean + Push Presses or snatches.
Tactical Agility
Agility drills with level changes and shuttles/Sprints.
Chassis Integrity
Just one time a week this cycle. We’ve integrated Grip Strength into Chassis Integrity for this cycle, with timed farmers carries and plate pinch carries.
WEEKLY SCHEDULE
- Day 1: Density Strength, Work Capacity (step up/shuttle AMRAP)
- Day 2: TAC SEPA, Work Capacity (Sledge Hit/Burpee Intervals)
- Day 3: Strength, Chassis Integrity
- Day 4: TAC SEPA, Work Capacity (1-Arm Clean + Push Press/Snatch Intervals)
Given the work scheduling differences amongst firefighters and other fire/rescue athletes, this training plan does not assign training days (Monday, Tuesday, etc.) but rather lists 4 training sessions per week and leaves it up to the individual athlete to schedule his/her fitness training. In general, we recommend Fire/Rescue Athletes train at their fire or duty stations as much as possible possible. For a 24 hours shift, we specifically recommend you train early in the morning the day your shift begins, and again early in the morning the day your shift ends. Why? So others can see you training, and see that it can be done. As well, training during these times will help limit your work-specific training to the work place, and help address the burden of constant fitness over the course of your career.
Ideally, you’ll complete 4 trainings sessions per week. Obviously this is dependent on your unit’s duty schedule.
REQUIRED EQUIPMENT
- Barbell, Rack, Plates and/or a Full set of Dumbbells or Kettlebells
- Sandbags (40/60/80 Pound)
- Flat Bench
- Bench/Box for Step Ups
- Parking Lot/Open Garage Bay for Sprints
- Old Backpack
- Foam Roller
*** Note: Many of the weight training exercises in the plan can be completed with either a barbell and plates, or dumbbells/kettlebells. For example, if the session calls for power cleans, and your station doesn’t have a barbell/plates, you can substitute dumbbells and/or kettlebells and complete the dumbbell/kettlebell versions of the exercises. Be resourceful.
COMMON QUESTIONS
How long with the Training Sessions take?
The training sessions are designed to be completed in 60 minutes.
What does “4/8x” mean? How about “15/25#”?
The first number is for women, second is for men, both for reps, and loading. Examples:
4/8x Chin Ups = Women do 4x, Men do 8x
15/25# = Women use 15# (pounds), Men use 25# (pounds)
What Equipment is Required?
- Barbell, Rack, Plates and/or a Full set of Dumbbells or Kettlebells
- Sandbags (40/60/80 Pound)
- Flat Bench
- Bench/Box for Step Ups
- Parking Lot/Open Garage Bay for Sprints
- Old Backpack
- Foam Roller
What if I miss a training day?
Ideally, you will train 4 days per week, and take 3 full days off for rest or active recovery. If for some reason miss a session, do not skip ahead. Start again where you left off and complete the sessions in order throughout the plan.
The programming is progressive – it builds upon itself – and the training sessions are designed to be completed in order.
Where do I find unfamiliar exercises?
See our Exercise Library HERE.
What about nutrition?
See our Nutritional Guidelines HERE.
Can I see sample training?
Click the “Sample Training” tab to see the entire first week of programming.
How do I access the plan?
Access is online, via username and password. You can log in either through our website or through our app (Mtn Tactical Fitness) available for IOS and Android.
More Questions? Email: coach@mtntactical.com
DISCLAIMER
Before beginning any exercise program, consult with your physician to ensure that you are in proper health. Physical training contains inherent risks including, but not limited to, muscle strains, tears, physical and bodily injury up to and including death. This training program is not meant to provide medical advice; you should obtain medical advice from your private health care practitioner. If you are unable to assume these risks then you should not engage in this training program. No liability is assumed by Mountain Tactical Institute, Inc, its owners or employees, and you train at your own risk. Mountain Tactical Institute makes no warranty, express or implied, of any kind in connection with this training program.
REQUIRED EQUIPMENT
- Barbell, Rack, Plates and/or a Full set of Dumbbells or Kettlebells
- Sandbags (40/60/80 Pound)
- Flat Bench
- Bench/Box for Step Ups
- Parking Lot/Open Garage Bay for Sprints
- Old Backpack
- Foam Roller
Below is the entire first week of programming from Tiger:
****************
SESSION 1
Obj: Strength, Work Capacity
Warm up:
3 Rounds
- 8x Push Press @ 45/65#
- 8x Lunges@ 15/25#
- Instep Stretch
- 5x Shoulder Dislocates
Training:
(1) 8 Rounds
- 3x Push Press - Increase load each round until 3x is hard, but doable.
- 3rd World Stretch
RECORD FINAL LOAD
(2) 8 Rounds
- 3x In Place Lunge - Increase load each round until 3x is hard, but doable
- Hip Flexor Stretch
RECORD FINAL LOADS
(2) 20 Minute - As Many Rounds as Possible wearing SCBA, 25# Weight Vest or 25# Back Pack
- 25x Step Ups
- 6x 25m Shuttles (3x Round Trips)
Record Total Rounds to the nearest completed 1/2 Round
(3) Foam Roll Legs/Low Back
*****************
SESSION 2
Obj: TAC SEPA, Work Capacity
Warm up:
3 Rounds
- 10x Squats
- 5x Box Jumps @ 20”
- 5x Burpees
- 4x 40-Foot Shuttles
Instep Stretch
Training:
(1) 5 Rounds
- TAC SEPA - 50m Down/Back/Down Shuttle
- Rest 45 Seconds
(2) Repeat (1) wearing 25# weight vest, SCBA or 25# Backpack
(3) 17 Rounds - Every Minute on the Minute
- Rounds 1-5: 10x Sledge Hits on Tire, then 6x Burpees
- Round 6: Rest
- Rounds 7-11: 10x Sledge Hits on Tire, then 6x Burpees
- Round 12: Rest
- Rounds 13-17: 10x Sledge Hits on Tire, then 6x Burpees
(4) Foam Roll Legs/Low Back
**************
SESSION 3
Obj: Strength, Chassis Integrity
Warm Up:
3 Rounds
- 5x Push Press @ 40/50/65% 3RM
- Lat + Pec Stretch
Training:
(1) 8 Rounds
- 3x Push Press - See below for loading
- 3rd World Stretch
(2) 3 Rounds
- 3x In Place Lunge - See below for loading
- Hip Flexor Stretch
(5) 10 Minute Grind
- 4x 1-Sided Dead Lift @ 15/25#
- 4x Standing Keg Lift @ 40/60# Sandbag
- 15/15 Standing Founder
- 45 Second Farmers Carry
Comments:
Drop 10# from SESSION 1’s finishing load and use this load for rounds 4-8.
Example:
My finishing load for the Push Press was 135. I’d use the following loading scheme.
Rounds Reps Load
1 3x 65% of Finish Load
2. 3x. 75%
3. 3x. 85%
4-8 3x. 125# (-10 of 3RM)
****************
SESSION 4
Obj: Work Capacity, TAC SEPA
Warm Up:
3 Rounds
- 5x 1-Arm Kettlebell/Dumbbell Clean + Push Press or Snatch (your choice) @12/16kg
- 1x Pull Up
- 10x Goblet Squats @ 12kg
- Instep Stretch
- 5x Dislocate
Training:
(1) 4 Rounds
- 4 Min 1-Arm Kettlebell/Dumbbell Clean + Push Press or Snatch @ 16/20kg. (Alternate Arms Every 3-5 Reps)
- 1 Minute Rest
(2) 5 Rounds
- TAC SEPA - Under/Over/Under Agility Drill
- Rest 45 Seconds
(3) Repeat (2) wearing 25# weight vest, SCBA or 25# Backpack
Comments:
Part (1) - you can use either a dumbbell (35/45#) or a kettlebell, and do either 1-arm clean and push press or snatch. Pacing is important here …. not reps. The goal is to work at a steady pace, for each work interval, and not put the dumbbell/kettlebell down.
I’ve used a few different on-line programming sites over the last few years, all designed for the “tactical athlete”. In my opinion MTI is definitely the best. I’d love to help you out and tell you that this or that needs a tweak but everything on the site/app works great. As far as the programming, I’ve spent 17 years with the FDNY and your fire rescue plans are the best that I’ve seen when it comes to transferability to the job. Most people mix something designed for the Military or PD with some cross fit and call it a “Fire Fighter” Training plan. Your emphasis on longevity In the programming (real core work and eliminating garbage reps) is something that is rarely taken into account in this type of training. Some pay lip service to it but you’ve adapted your plans to stress it. The attention to detail in your programming and in the set up and maintenance of the site really set you apart. Thanks for a great product
COMMON QUESTIONS:
Do you have any reviews or testimonials from athletes who have used your Athlete's Subscription
Yes. Click HERE.
Is it true you guarantee your stuff works?
Yes. If you purchase an Athletes’ Subscription, follow the training sessions as prescribed, and are not satisfied with the quality of the programming, notify us within 30 days of purchase, and we’ll refund your money, no questions asked.
How is MTI programming different than CrossFit?
This is a common question. Read our answer HERE.
You have a lot of competitors. Why should I choose MTI?
MTI is driven to improve mountain and tactical athletes' mission performance and keep them safe. This emphasis and focus on mission performance sets us apart. Read about more that sets us apart HERE.
If I purchase a plan or subscription, how do I access the programming?
All of our plans are online, accessible via username and password.
You can log in through our →Website or Mobile App →IOS and Android.
Do you have downloadable .pdf's of the training plans?
No. But you can print the programming, by week, from your browser. You access individual training plans online via a username and password.
Do you have a mobile app?
Yes, we do. Available for IOS and Android.
What is the difference between purchasing an individual training plan, packet of plans or an Athlete's Subscription?
- Plan - Like purchasing the DVD of the first Star Wars movie. You own it forever, including any updates we make to the plan.
- Packet - Like purchasing the DVD's of all the Star Wars movies. You own them forever, including any updates we make to the plans.
- Athlete's Subscription - Like subscribing to Netflix. You get access to all 200+ plan in our library, but lose access if you unsubscribe.
If I purchase an Athletes Subscription Can I cancel on my own, anytime?
Yes.
Do I have to contact MTI to cancel or can I do it myself?
You can do it yourself. Instructions HERE.
If I purchase a subscription and have questions about where to start or what plans(s) to use for my goals, will you help?
Yes. We answer dozens of training questions from athletes weekly. Email coach@mtntactical.com.
If you add new plans or update existing plans after I subscribe will I have access to them?
Yes. We are continuously adding training plans and packets (2-5/month) and updating plans. With your subscription you'll have access to all new plans, new courses and plan updates.
What Equipment is Required?
Click the "Required Equipment" tab to find out what equipment is required for the specific plan you are interested in.
Where do I find unfamiliar exercises?
See our Exercise Library HERE. The Run and Ruck Calculators are listed as exercises.
What about nutrition?
See our Nutritional Guidelines HERE.
Can I see sample training?
Click the “Sample Training” tab to see the entire first week of programming. You are encouraged to do it before purchasing.
What if I have more questions?
Email rob@mtntactical.com