1. Introduction
Background: The purpose of this study was to assess the effects of protein and carbohydrate supplementation, with and without creatine, on occupational performance in firefighters. Methods: Using a randomized, double-blind approach, thirty male firefighters (age: 34.4 ± 8.4 yrs., height: 1.82 ± 0.07 m; weight: 88.6 ± 12.5 kg; BF%: 17.2 ± 5.8%) were randomized to receive either (A.) 25 g of whey protein isolate + 25 g of carbohydrate powder (ProCarb group); or (B.) ProCarb + 5 g of creatine (Creatine group) in a double-blind fashion over a period of 21–26 days (depending on shift rotations) to evaluate the impact of supplementation on occupation-specific performance. At baseline and following supplementation, firefighters completed a battery of tests. These tests included an aerobic speed test on an air-braked cycle ergometer followed by the hose carry, body drag, stair climb, and Keiser sled hammer for time. Results: No significant differences in measures of performance were observed at baseline (Firefighters are viewed as tactical athletes due to the physically demanding nature of the occupation and the specialized activities they routinely complete. Firefighters repeatedly perform high-intensity functional tasks at varying intervals, and are often exposed to high-temperature environments and environmental hazards, which places a high degree of physiological and thermoregulatory strain on the body [A recent position stand outlined the importance of adequate energy and macronutrient intakes to meet the activity demands of tactical athletes [Creatine may be another nutrient of interest for tactical populations because of its well-supported ergogenic benefits and minimal reported side effects across the literature [Previous work has examined the effects of adding creatine to whey protein and carbohydrates on training adaptations in resistance-trained individuals with mixed findings [