Fire-fighters must be in good physical condition to safely perform their activities. The aims of this study were to describe the anthropometric characteristics and physical fitness of two groups of fire-fighters and discuss the differences according to age.

A total of 33 fire-fighters from the two groups took part: G1, under 40, and G2, over 40 years. We analysed body composition, jump test, hamstring flexibility, hand dynamometry, strength of upper and lower extremities, and heart rate, estimated maximal oxygen consumption and perceived exertion in Course Navette.

Both groups had body composition values as regards weight, and significant differences were only found in height. As regards physical condition, G1 showed better values for all variables than G2. They only significant differences being in the estimated maximal oxygen consumption, rate of perceived exertion, manual strength of the left hand, and maximum dynamic force.

Both groups presented characteristics of fitness appropriate for the proper development of their professional activity. However, G1 had higher values than G2 in all variables of physical fitness.