The problem was the Hartford Fire Department's punitive physical fitness evaluation system did not promote physical fitness within the department. The purpose of the research was to develop and produce criteria for a comprehensive physical fitness evaluation system that could be used to promote physical fitness. Action research was conducted to answer the questions regarding National, State, and Local criteria as well as criteria used by similar sized departments. A literature review was conducted on physical fitness evaluations. Personal interviews were held with the stakeholders and with the Department's fitness trainers. The results indicated the IAFF/IAFC Joint Labor Management Wellness-Fitness Initiative would be most beneficial, and the recommendation was to adopt the fitness evaluation outlined in this Initiative.