Prepare for the Police Physical Exam

About the Physical Test

The Physical Test is also referred to as the Physical Ability Test or the Physical Fitness Test. Each physical test is different from one another. But they all measure your physical ability to complete tasks that will be required as a police officer. As an officer you may encounter situations where you will need to physically exert yourself. The exam is not timed in the conventional sense, but you will be tested on how quickly you complete a task, or how much you accomplish in a certain time frame.

Components of the Physical Fitness Test

Each physical exam is different. Here is a general list of what is most physical exams measure. Each test is scored by your age and sex.

• Sit-Up Test: This is a measure of the muscular endurance of the abdominal muscles. It is an important area for performing police tasks that may involve the use of force and is an important area for maintaining good posture and minimizing lower back problems. You will be scored on the number of correct sit-ups you accomplish in one minute. For a male between 18-29 an average of 30 is expected. For a female between 18-29 an average of 28 is expected.
  
  
• Sit and Reach Test: This is a measure of the flexibility of the lower back and upper leg area. It is an important area for performing police tasks that may involve range of motion and is important in minimizing lower back problems.The score is the distance, in inches, reached on a yard stick.
  
  
• Push-Up Test: This is a measure of strength and endurance related to the muscles in the chest, upper arms and shoulder girdle. It is an important area for performing police tasks requiring upper body strength. You will be scored on the number of push-ups performed in one minute.
  
  
• 1.5 Mile Run: This is a timed run to measure the heart and vascular system capability to transport oxygen. It is an important area for performing police tasks involving stamina and endurance and to minimize the risk of cardiovascular problems. The score is in minutes and seconds. For a male between 18-29 an average of 13 minutes is expected. For a female between 18-29 an average of 16 minutes is expected.
  
  
• 300 Meter Run: is a timed measure for the strength of the legs.
  
  
• Bench Press: This is the maximum weight pushed from the bench press position, measuring the amount of upper body force that can be generated. It is an important area for performing police tasks requiring upper body strength. The test will be conducted on a Universal DVR-Chest Press. The score is a ratio of weight pushed divided by body weight.

Before the Physical Exam

You should start a physical fitness program, if you have not already. If you are not already following a rigorous physical fitness program, you should consult with and/or visit your physician before beginning any physical training program. Pregnant women should be cleared by their physician before engaging in any exercise program.

Steps in the Hiring Process:

1. Police Written Exam
2. Physical Exam
3. Oral Board Exam

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