Justified Concerns? An Exploration of the Leg Tuck in a Tactical Population

The leg tuck was replaced by the plank in the Army Combat Fitness Test, in part because it was felt it discriminated against women. There is limited leg tuck research, including between-sex comparisons and relationships with other fitness tests. This study investigated the leg tuck in a firefighter trainee population (274 males, 31 females). Archival fitness test data included: Illinois agility test (IAT); push-ups; pull-ups; leg tucks; multistage fitness test; 4.54 kg backwards overhead medicine ball throw (BOMBT); 10-repetition maximum deadlift; and 18 kg kettlebell farmer's carry over a 91.44 m course. Independent samples t-tests (p < 0.05) and effect sizes (d) compared the sexes. Partial correlations and stepwise regression (controlling for sex; p < 0.05) calculated relationships between the leg tuck with the other tests. Male trainees outperformed females in all tests (p ≤ 0.003). The largest difference was for the BOMBT (d = 2.59) not the leg tuck (d = 1.28). The strongest leg tuck relationships were with pull-ups (r = 0.790) and push-ups (r = 0.553). Sex, pull-ups, and push-ups predicted the leg tuck (r² = 0.674). Approximately 80% of the females could complete one leg tuck, although female personnel may require specific strength and power training. Pulling strength may be a determining factor in leg tuck performance, which is likely not indicated by the plank.

Profiling the Typical Training Load of a Law Enforcement Recruit Class

Law enforcement academies, designed to prepare recruits for their prospective career, represent periods of high physical and mental stress, potentially contributing to recruits' injuries. Managing stress via monitoring training loads may mitigate injuries while ensuring adequate preparation. However, it is vital to first understand an academy's typical training load. The aim of this study was to profile the typical training load of law enforcement recruits over the course of 22 weeks. Data were prospectively collected using global positioning system (GPS) units placed on recruits during a portion of the academy training, while a desktop analysis was retrospectively applied to six other classes. A Bland-Altman plot was conducted to assess the agreement between the two methods. A linear mixed model was conducted to analyse the difference in distances covered per week, while other variables were presented graphically. Adequate agreement between the desktop analysis and GPS units was observed. Significant differences (p-value < 0.01) in distance covered (9.64 to 11.65 km) exist between weeks during early academy stages, which coincide with increases (~6 h) in physical training. Significant decreases in distances were experienced during the last five weeks of academy training. Most acute:chronic workload ratios stayed between the proposed 0.8 to 1.3 optimal range. Results from this study indicate that large increases in training occur early in the academy, potentially influencing injuries. Utilizing a desktop analysis is a pragmatic and reliable approach for instructors to measure load.

Health and fitness data for police officers within a health and wellness program: Implications for occupational performance and career longevity

BACKGROUND: Health and wellness programs can be implemented at police departments. Little research has detailed the characteristics of officers within these programs. OBJECTIVE: To analyse the health and fitness data of officers involved in a health and wellness program from 2018–2020, and to profile the officers involved relative to population norms. METHODS: Analysis was conducted on archival data from 633 officers (523 males, 110 females) who participated in a health and wellness program from a large city police department. Data included: body mass; body fat percentage; blood pressure (BP); estimated maximal aerobic capacity; sit-and-reach; push-ups; vertical jump; grip strength; sit-ups; bench press ratio. Data were grouped by year (2018, 2019, 2020), and a univariate ANCOVA with Bonferroni post hoc adjustment determined any significant between-group differences. Individual officer data were also compared to population norms. RESULTS: The 2020 group had higher systolic BP compared to both other groups, and superior sit-and-reach and grip strength compared to the 2018 group (p <  0.05). Compared to population norms across the 3 years, 74–86% of officers had BP elevated above normal levels. Depending on the fitness component measured most officers (69–98%) were categorised as average or better. CONCLUSIONS: There were few differences between the year groups, although the 2020 officers did have superior sit-and-reach and grip strength. The higher systolic BP from the 2020 group may be indicative of the challenges of the year (pandemic, civil unrest). Officers generally had good profiles relative to population norms. The wellness program appeared to benefit the well-being of officers.

Profiling the injuries of law enforcement recruits during academy training: a retrospective cohort study

Background

Injuries within law enforcement are a significant issue as they increase organisational costs and workforce strain. As one of the biggest risk factors of future injury is previous injury, minimising injuries suffered during academy has multiple beneficial and long-term effects, including a healthier and fitter police force. The purpose of this study was to profile the injuries sustained at a law enforcement academy to inform future injury mitigation strategies.

Methods

Injury data were provided retrospectively (from May 2012 to September 2019) from the official insurance records of a law enforcement academy and included nature, location, and activity performed at time of injury. A total of 4340 (3288 males, 938 females, 114 sex not stated) recruits participated in academy training during this period. Inclusion criteria for the data were (a) injury record related to a recruit, and (b) the recruit was injured during academy training., with injury defined as tissue damage caused by acute or repetitive trauma, inclusive of musculoskeletal, neural, and/or integumentary systems but excluding general medical conditions such as cardiac (e.g. heart attacks) or respiratory (asthma) that was subsequently reported for worker’s compensation. Injury incidence rates and proportions were calculated and a Spearman’s correlation analysis was conducted between injury rates over successive classes.

Results

An injury incidence rate of 368.63 injuries per 1000 recruits per year was calculated in this population, with a moderate correlation coefficient (r_s = 0.60) of increasing injury rates over chronologically occurring classes. Females also had higher injury rates than male recruits, even across various fitness levels. Trauma to joints and ligaments (49.30%) was the most common injury, and the knee the most common location (23.17%) of injury. Physical training (56.10%) was the most common activity being performed at the time of injury.

Conclusions

This research demonstrates a large number of lower limb, musculoskeletal injuries that often occur during physical training. Further research is needed to assess suitable injury mitigation programs.

Extending Research on Law Enforcement Academy Graduation and Fitness: A Research Note on Receiver Operating Characteristic Curves

ABSTRACT

Lockie, RG, Dawes, JJ, Dulla, JM, and Orr, RM. Extending research on law enforcement academy graduation and fitness: A research note on receiver operating characteristic curves. J Strength Cond Res XX(X): 000-000, 2022-Fitness level contributes to a law enforcement recruit's ability to graduate from a training academy. However, limited research has used receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves to ascertain whether fitness tests can accurately predict academy graduation. The investigators analyzed archival data from 311 recruits (260 males and 51 females) across 4 academy classes from 1 law enforcement agency. A robust, broad battery of fitness test data included grip strength for both hands, vertical jump, 75-yard pursuit run (75PR), 2-kg medicine ball throw, push-ups, sit-ups, arm ergometer revolutions in 60 seconds, and 20-m multistage fitness test (20MSFT) shuttles. Recruits were split into those who graduated (n = 269) or those who separated (did not complete academy; n = 42). A univariate ANOVA, with sex as a control variable, determined between-group fitness differences. Receiver operating characteristic curves were plotted for each fitness test, and the area under the curve (AUC) determined accuracy. Except for grip strength, graduated recruits were superior in all fitness tests (p < 0.001). The 75PR (AUC = 0.708) and 20MSFT (AUC = 0.727) had fair accuracy in predicting academy graduation. The data suggested that, ideally, fitness tests should not be used for diagnostic purposes in relation to academy graduation potential. Fitness test data can be used to provide specific feedback to at-risk recruits. These results suggest that the 75PR (change-of-direction speed) and 20MSFT (aerobic fitness) could contribute to successful graduation in law enforcement recruits. Law enforcement training staff could use this information to provide targeted training for recruits lacking in these qualities.

Between-Sex Differences in the Work Sample Test Battery Performed by Law Enforcement Recruits: Implications for Training and Potential Job Performance

ABSTRACT

Lockie, RG, Beitzel, MM, Dulla, JM, Dawes, JJ, Orr, RM, and Hernandez, JA. Between-sex differences in the work sample test battery performed by law enforcement recruits: implications for training and potential job performance. J Strength Cond Res 36(5): 1310-1317, 2022-Law enforcement officers perform a range of demanding job-specific tasks, and these tasks are the same for all officers, regardless of sex. Female officers tend to be at a physical disadvantage compared with male officers, and this could affect their performance in job-specific tasks. This study investigated the between-sex differences in the work sample test battery (WSTB; duplicates what an officer encounters on-duty) in law enforcement recruits. A retrospective analysis was performed on 308 recruits (259 men and 49 women) from 5 training academy classes. The WSTB incorporated 5 tests: a 99-yard obstacle course (99OC), 165-pound body drag (BD), 6-foot chain link fence (CLF), solid wall (SW) climb, and 500-yard run (500R). These tests were typically performed in the last weeks of academy and must be completed to a state-mandated minimum standard for recruits to graduate. Independent-samples t tests (p < 0.05) and effect sizes (d) calculated between-sex differences. Noting that when individual data were considered, there were male recruits who were outperformed by female recruits. However, on average, female recruits were slower on all WSTB tasks than male recruits (p < 0.01). Large effects were present for the 99OC, CLF, and 500R differences (d = 1.26-1.69), a moderate effect for the BD (d = 0.85), and a small effect for the SW (d = 0.56). Slower performance in job-specific tests could translate to slower performance in tasks required on-duty. Training staff should develop the qualities necessary for WSTB performance in female recruits and underperforming male recruits to enhance future job performance.

The Bigger They Are: Relationships between Body Height and Mass with the Body Drag Task in Law Enforcement Recruits

California law enforcement recruits must perform a body drag before they graduate academy. While this task may be challenging for smaller recruits, no research has analyzed height and body mass relationships with the body drag. Data from 643 recruits (542 males, 101 females) who completed the drag in the final weeks of academy were analyzed. The recruits lifted a 74.84-kg, 1.73-m tall dummy and dragged it 9.75 m as quickly as possible. Independent samples t-tests compared the sexes; partial correlations controlling for sex detailed relationships between height and body mass with drag time. Recruits were split into quartile groups (based on sample size) for height and body mass (Group 1: shortest, lightest; Group 4: tallest, heaviest). A one-way MANOVA, with sex as a covariate, and Bonferroni post hoc, compared the groups. Male recruits were taller, heavier, and completed the drag faster than females (p < 0.001). There were small relationships between height (r = -0.255) and body mass (r = -0.211) with drag time. When split into height groups, the shortest recruits (Group 1) completed the drag 23-37% slower than all groups (p ≤ 0.031). When split into body mass groups, the lightest recruits (Group 1) were 23-35% slower than all groups (p ≤ 0.007). Most females (94-96%) were placed in Groups 1 or 2. Height and body mass could influence drag performance. Taller recruits may be able to lift the dummy off the ground, reducing friction, while heavier recruits may produce more force. Female and smaller male recruits should complete strength and power training to mitigate body size limitations.

Profiling the New Zealand Police Trainee Physical Competency Test

Police officers require a certain amount of occupational fitness to successfully perform physically demanding tasks. As such, trainees are required to undergo training to develop their ability to perform such tasks. The physical competency test (PCT) is a 400 m obstacle course consisting of key police occupational physical tasks used to evaluate a trainee's ability to complete tasks that a police officer is expected to perform whilst on duty. The purpose of this study was to profile the PCT in a police recruit population to provide an indication of the current level of occupational fitness within a policing population to inform conditioning requirements. Retrospective data for 813 male (age = 27.41 ± 5.92 years, body mass = 83.98 ± 14.03 kg, height = 179.23 ± 10.50 cm, BMI = 25.85 ± 3.92 kg/m2) and 372 female (mean age = 27.01 ± 6.45 years, mean weight = 67.14 ± 8.60 kg, mean height = 168.14 ± 6.46 cm and mean BMI = 23.61 ± 2.52 kg/m2) police trainees from the New Zealand Police Constabulary Recruitment database were provided for analysis. Anthropometric data, including height, body mass, and BMI were provided, in addition to trainee PCT time. Data were split by sex and age. Significant differences were observed between sexes for all anthropometric measures and PCT time (p < 0.001). Generally, in both the male and female groups, younger recruits tended to perform better than the older recruits with results between the “under 20” and the 20–24-year-old-age groups performing significantly better than the 35–39-year-old-age group in both sexes, and the 25–29-year-old-age group performing significantly better than the 35–39-year-old-age group in female officers. The data provided in this study provides a profile for performance of male and female recruits of various ages on the PCT in preparation for entry, or re-entry following injury, into the NZ Police. However, given that the PCT is considered a measure of occupational task performance, consideration should be given to the use of sex and age neutral requirements as the occupational tasks performed by police officers exhibit the same traits regardless of sex or age. Older trainees may therefore need conditioning to improve PCT times and subsequently occupational performance.

Relationships Between Tests of Strength, Power, and Speed and the 75-Yard Pursuit Run

ABSTRACT

Post, BK, Dawes, JJ, and Lockie, RG. Relationships between tests of strength, power, and speed and the 75-yard pursuit run. J Strength Cond Res 36(1): 99-105, 2022-The 75-yard pursuit run (75 PR) was designed to simulate a foot pursuit for law enforcement officers (LEOs). Currently, there has been no analysis of contributing physiological factors to performance in this test. The study purpose was to determine the relationships between the 75 PR and tests of linear speed, change-of-direction (COD) speed, and lower-body power and strength. Forty-three subjects (21 men and 22 women) completed 2 testing days. Day 1 consisted of the 75 PR, and linear speed (5- and 20-m sprint intervals) and lower-body power (standing broad jump, best lateral jump regardless of leg) tests. Day 2 included the COD speed (Illinois agility test [IAT], best 505 regardless of leg), lower-body power (vertical jump [VJ]), and strength (isometric mid-thigh pull: peak force, normalized peak force [nPF]) tests. Pearson's (men and women) and partial (combined controlling for sex) correlations (p < 0.05) determined relationships between the 75 PR and the performance tests. Significant relationships were found between the 75 PR and the jump tests (r = -0.53 to -0.68), 20-m sprint interval, IAT, and 505 (r = 0.55-0.82) in men, and between the 75 PR and the jump tests, nPF (r = -0.56 to -0.79), sprint intervals, IAT, and 505 in women (r = 0.54-0.84). When sexes were combined, significant relationships were observed between the 75 PR and the jump tests, nPF (r = -0.41 to -0.67), sprint intervals, IAT, and 505 (r = 0.43-0.78). Prospective LEOs should develop linear and COD speed, lower-body power, and relative strength to improve foot pursuit ability.

The Health and Fitness Characteristics of Civilian Jailer Recruits Prior to Academy Training

Civilian jailer (CJ) recruits may not complete fitness testing within their hiring process. As certain job tasks in custody/jail facilities can be physically demanding (e.g., inmate restraint), better health and fitness should help a recruit graduate from a CJ academy and be prepared for the occupation. This study investigated the health and fitness characteristics of CJ recruits entering academy training, detailed between-sex differences, and categorized recruits relative to population norms. Retrospective analysis was conducted on data from 89 CJ recruits (48 males, 41 females) across three academy classes from one law enforcement agency. The following were measured before academy: resting heart rate (RHR); blood pressure (BP); height, body mass, and body mass index (BMI); waist circumference; sit-and-reach; grip strength; 60-s pushups; and YMCA step test recovery heart rate (HR). Independent samples t-tests derived any between-sex differences. Recruit data were compared to categorical population norms. The results indicated that male recruits were taller, heavier, had greater grip strength, and completed more push-ups than female recruits (p < 0.001). Approximately 53% of recruits were overweight or obese according to BMI, ~63% had an RHR below average-to-very poor, and ~75% had elevated BP or hypertension. Most recruits had good-to-excellent flexibility (sit-and-reach; ~66%) and muscular endurance (push-ups; ~85%). However, ~70% of recruits had fair-to-poor grip strength, and ~79% had poor-to-very poor aerobic fitness measured by step test recovery HR. Aerobic conditioning and strength training should be a focus of CJ recruits during academy. Furthermore, better aerobic fitness should benefit job performance and lessen cardiovascular disease risk.

Analysis of Total and Segmental Body Composition Relative to Fitness Performance Measures in Law Enforcement Recruits

Law enforcement agencies often test the fitness performance and body composition of incoming recruits. This study investigated the relationships between whole and segmental body composition, and fitness tests in law enforcement recruits. A retrospective analysis of 72 male and 11 female recruits was performed. Bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) variables were: lean mass (LM), upper-extremity lean mass (UELM), trunk LM, lower-extremity lean mass (LELM), fat mass (FM), upper-extremity fat mass (UEFM), trunk FM, and lower-extremity fat mass (LEFM). Fitness tests included: vertical jump (VJ), peak anaerobic power (PAPw), 75-yard pursuit run (75PR), push-ups, sit-ups, 2-kg medicine ball throw (MBT), and the multi-stage fitness test (MSFT). Partial correlations and ANCOVAs between quartiles assessed relationships between body composition and performance. Significant moderate-to-large relationships were found; LM, UELM, trunk LM, LELM all related to PAPw (r = 0.500-0.558) and MBT (r = 0.494-0.526). FM, UEFM, trunk FM, LEFM all related to VJ (r = -0.481 to -0.493), 75PR (r = 0.533-0.557), push-ups (r = -0.484 to -0.503), sit-ups (r = -0.435 to -0.449), and MSFT (r = -0.371 to -0.423). The highest LM quartile (4) had superior PAPw and MBT than LM quartiles 1-3. Higher FM quartiles performed poorer in VJ, push-ups, and sit-ups. The 75PR quartiles 2, 3, and 4 were slower than quartile 1, and MSFT quartile 4 completed less shuttles. Total and segmental measures of LM and FM shared the same relationships; lower FM and higher LM related to better performance. Monitoring body composition could help guide training to optimize performance.

Comparison of Lower Extremity Kinematics during the Overhead Deep Squat by Functional Movement Screen Score

It is unclear if the Functional Movement Screen (FMS) scoring criteria identify kinematics that have been associated with lower extremity injury risk. The purpose was to compare lower extremity kinematics of the overhead deep squat (OHDS) during the FMS between individuals who were grouped on FMS scoring. Forty-five adults who were free of injury and without knowledge of the FMS or its scoring criteria (males = 19, females = 26; height = 1.68 0.08 m; mass = 70.7 7 13.0 kg). Three-dimensional lower extremity kinematics during an OHDS were measured using a motion capture system. One-way MANOVA was used to compare kinematic outcomes (peak hip flexion angle, hip adduction angle, knee flexion angle, knee abduction angle, knee internal rotation angle, and ankle dorsiflexion angle) between FMS groups. Those who scored a 3 had greater peak hip flexion angle (F_2,42 = 8.75; p = 0.001), knee flexion angle (F_2,42 = 13.53; p = 0.001), knee internal rotation angle (F_2,42 = 12.91; p = 0.001), and dorsiflexion angle (F_2,42 = 9.00; p = 0.001) compared to those who scored a 2 or a 1. However, no differences were found in any outcome between those who scored a 2 and those who scored a 1, or in frontal plane hip or knee kinematics. FMS scoring for the OHDS identified differences in squat depth, which was characterized by larger peak hip, knee, and dorsi- flexion angles in those who scored a 3 compared with those who scored 2 or 1. However, no differences were found between those who scored a 2 or 1, and caution is recommended when interpreting these scores. Despite a different FMS score, few differences were observed in frontal or transverse plane hip and knee kinematics, and other tasks may be needed to assess frontal plane kinematics.

The Effects Aerobic Fitness has on Heart Rate Responses for a Custody Assistant Recruit Class Performing a Formation Run

This study measured the heart rate (HR) responses to a formation run (group run completed along a set route) performed by higher fitness (HF), moderate fitness (MF), or lower fitness (LF) custody assistant (CA) recruits. Retrospective data from 26 recruits (12 males, 14 females) were analyzed. Prior to academy training, a YMCA step test was administered. Recruits were divided into three groups based on recovery HR: top 25% were HF; bottom 25% were LF; the rest were MF. Recruit HR was measured during a formation run completed at an ~11-minute mile · pace^-1. HR zones were defined as: very light (< 57% of age-predicted maximum heart rate [HR_max]); light (57%-63% HR_max); moderate (64%-76% HR_max); vigorous (77%-95% HR_max); and very vigorous (> 95% HR_max). A one-way ANOVA, with Bonferroni post hoc, calculated between-group differences in time spent and percentage of total time in the HR zones during the run; effect sizes (d) were also calculated. HF recruits spent a significantly longer time and percentage of total time in the very light HR zone compared to the LF group (p ≤ 0.039; d = 1.20-1.35). There were no other significant between-group differences (p = 0.070-0.980). HF CA recruits spent more time in the very light training zone compared to the other groups (d = 0.92-1.35), which may not be optimal for aerobic adaptations. LF recruits spent more time in the vigorous-to-very vigorous HR zones (~45 minutes; 70% of the run). These recruits may potentially be working above their current capacity. Formation runs may not be the most efficient aerobic conditioning method for all CA recruits.

Relationship Between the 20-m Multistage Fitness Test and 2.4-km Run in Law Enforcement Recruits

ABSTRACT

Lockie, RG, Dawes, JJ, Moreno, MR, Cesario, KA, Balfany, K, Stierli, M, Dulla, JM, and Orr, RM. Relationship between the 20-m multistage fitness test and 2.4-km run in law enforcement recruits. J Strength Cond Res 35(10): 2756-2761, 2021-In the United States, the 2.4-km run is arguably the most common law enforcement aerobic assessment. Potential limitations are that recruits use an internal pacing strategy, the test requires fewer direction changes, and less-fit recruits run for longer. The 20-m multistage fitness test (20MSFT) is commonly used internationally to assess aerobic fitness in law enforcement recruits and provides an external pacing strategy. This study documented sex differences between the 2.4-km run and 20MSFT in law enforcement recruits, and between-test relationships. Retrospective analysis on 8 academy classes (463 men and 87 women) from 1 agency was conducted. The 20MSFT was completed before academy and the 2.4-km run in the first week. Between-sex comparisons in the 2.4-km run and 20MSFT were conducted with independent-samples t-tests and effect sizes. Estimated V̇o2max from the tests was compared with paired-samples t-tests. Correlations and linear regression calculated 2.4-km run and 20MSFT relationships. There were significant between-sex differences for the 2.4-km run and 20MSFT (p < 0.01), with moderate (d = 0.9) and small (d = 0.4) effects, respectively. Estimated 2.4-km run V̇o2max was greater than that from the 20MSFT (p < 0.01). The 2.4-km run had significant relationships with the 20MSFT (r = -0.6), although the regression equations were low (r2 = 0.30-0.37). Between-sex differences in the 20MSFT seemed less than for those in the 2.4-km run. Nonetheless, even with significant relationships between the tests, the 20MSFT induces a higher running intensity and direction changes. This may limit transferability with the 2.4-km run in law enforcement recruits.

How Does Time Spent Working in Custody Influence Health and Fitness Characteristics of Law Enforcement Officers?

This study investigated the influence of time spent working in custody on the health and fitness of law enforcement officers (LEOs). Retrospective analysis was conducted on data from 48 male and 12 female LEOs, divided into groups based upon time spent working custody: LEO ≤ 24 (≤24 months; n = 15); LEO 2547 (25-47 months; n = 24); and LEO 48+ (≥48 months; n = 21). The following were measured: body mass index (BMI); fat mass percentage; waist-to-hip ratio (WHR); resting heart rate (RHR); blood pressure; grip strength; sit-and-reach; push-ups; sit-ups; and YMCA step test recovery heart rate (HR). A univariate ANCOVA (controlling for sex and age) with Bonferroni post hoc determined significant between-group differences. Select assessments were compared to normative data. The LEO 48+ group completed fewer sit-ups than the LEO 2547 group (p = 0.006); there were no other significant between-group differences. Forty-nine LEOs were overweight or obese according to BMI; 52 were fatter than average or above; 27 had a WHR that increased cardiovascular disease risk. Forty-three LEOs had very poor RHR; 52 had elevated blood pressure. Forty-eight LEOs had average-to-very poor step test recovery HR. Irrespective of time spent working in custody, personnel should be physically active to maintain health and fitness and, where possible, engage in formal strength training and conditioning.

Effects of Sex and Age on Physical Testing Performance for Law Enforcement Agency Candidates: Implications for Academy Training

ABSTRACT

Bloodgood, AM, Dawes, JJ, Orr, RM, Stierli, M, Cesario, KA, Moreno, MR, Dulla, JM, and Lockie, RG. Effects of sex and age on physical testing performance for law enforcement agency candidates: implications for academy training. J Strength Cond Res 35(9): 2629-2635, 2021-Law enforcement candidates are often required to complete fitness tests to assess their preparedness for training. This study investigated the influence of sex and age on candidate performance before academy training. Retrospective analysis of 516 candidates was performed. Data were stratified into men (n = 432) and women (n = 84), and the pooled (men and women combined) data were stratified into age groups (20-24; 24-29; 30-34; 35-39; and 40+ years). The tests included the following: maximal push-ups and sit-ups in 60 seconds; a 75-yard pursuit run (75PR); arm ergometer revolutions completed in 60 seconds; and a 2.4-km run. To compare the sex and age groups, a 2 × 5 analysis of variance (with Bonferroni post hoc for multiple between-age group comparisons) was used. Men performed significantly (p < 0.001) more push-ups, sit-ups, and arm ergometer revolutions and were faster in the 75PR and 2.4-km run. The 20-24, 25-29, and 35-39 year groups were faster in the 75PR compared with the 40+ year group; the 20-24 and 25-29 year groups were faster than the 35-39 year group; and the 20-24 year group was faster than the 30-34 year group (p ≤ 0.023). The 20-24 year group was faster than the 40+ year group in the 2.4-km run (p = 0.005). Women and older candidates may have a lower physical capacity than men and younger candidates, respectively, in certain physical assessments. Women and older candidates, in particular, may benefit from dedicated training before academy to better prepare for the demands of this period.

Are There Differences in Fitness between Recruits from Larger (Hosting) and Smaller (Participating) Law Enforcement Agencies?

Law enforcement agencies often conduct academy training classes that include recruits hired by both the larger hosting agency (HA), and by smaller participating agencies (PA). HAs that need to fill more positions may have recruits with a wide range of fitness levels. Smaller agencies may be more selective in their hiring as they do not have as many available positions. This study compared HA and PA recruit fitness prior to academy. Retrospective analysis was conducted on 11 academy classes, incorporating 742 HA recruits (602 males, 140 females) and 99 PA recruits (82 males, 17 females). The following fitness tests were administered prior to academy: push-ups and sit-ups completed in 60 seconds, vertical jump; 2-kg medicine ball throw, 75-yard pursuit run, and 20-m multistage fitness test. A univariate analysis of variance, with sex as a covariate, analyzed each fitness test to determine any differences between HA and PA recruits. Effect sizes were also calculated. There were significant differences in push-up (p = 0.034, d = 0.22) and situp (p < 0.001, d = 0.47) repetitions between HA and PA recruits. PA recruits completed ~8% and ~12% more repetitions, respectively. There were trivial differences between HA and PA recruits in the other fitness tests, although HA recruits tended to have a wider range of fitness levels. The push-up and sit-up differences may provide some indication that PA were more selective in their hiring. Nonetheless, staff should recognize that individual fitness differences may exist in recruits from different agencies prior to academy training.

A Preliminary Investigation: Evaluating the Effectiveness of an Occupational Specific Training Program to Improve Lower Body Strength and Speed for Law Enforcement Officers

Based on current law enforcement officer (LEO) duties, musculoskeletal injury risk is elevated due to the unpredictable nature of physically demanding tasks. The purpose of this 4-week study was to determine the effectiveness of a 15-min post-shift standardized occupational specific training program. The standardized program was designed to improve lower-body strength and speed to aid physically demanding task performance. Seven male LEOs completed the program after their 12-h shift. Subjects were required to use the department fitness center to perform the 15-min standardized program consisting of a dynamic warm-up, 4 sets of 3 repetitions on hex-bar deadlift and four 20-m sprints. Two minutes of rest was required between each set of 3 repetitions on hex-bar deadlift and 1 min of rest between each 20-m sprint. A dependent T-test was used between pre-test and post-test scores for hex-bar deadlift (HBD) and sprint. Data revealed significant improvements in relative lower-body strength with HBD (p ≤ 0.001). However, insignificant results were demonstrated with the 20-m sprint (p ≤ 0.262). In conclusion, a 15-min post-shift workout can improve lower-body strength as measured by the hex-bar deadlift. However, data indicated running speed may require a different training approach to improve the 20-m sprint.

The effects of strength training upon front foot contact ground reaction forces and ball release speed among high-level cricket pace bowlers

The effects of an eight-week off-season strength training program upon lower-body strength, power, eccentric capacity, front foot contact (FFC) kinetics, and ball release speed (BRS) in pace bowlers were investigated. Ten elite-academy pace bowlers completed the intervention, and pre- and post-testing. Pre- and post-testing included: double (DLDL) and single leg (SLDL) drop landings; isometric mid-thigh pull (IMTP); countermovement jump; and pace bowling performance (two-over bowling spell measuring BRS and FFC kinetics). Changes from pre- to post-testing were assessed with paired sample t tests (p≤ 0.01), effects sizes and statistical parametrical mapping. Post-testing revealed a significant decrease in peak normalised vertical force during DLDL and SLDL with large effects and a significant, moderate effect increase in IMTP. There was no significant changes in BRS. Concomitantly, neither discrete scalar (p= 0.15-0.58) nor vector field analysis kinetics during FFC indicated significant changes. No significant alterations in FFC kinetics may explain the lack of improvement in BRS (pre = 31.55 ± 1.44 m/s; post = 31.79 ± 1.33 m/s). This study indicated an eight-week strength training program can improve strength and eccentric capacity in pace bowlers, and these changes when developed in the absence of skills training neither improved nor decreased pace bowling performance.

Exploring associations between physical fitness tests and a law enforcement specific Physical Ability Test using principal components analysis

The purpose of this study was to determine relationships between components of physical fitness on performance in an occupation-specific physical ability test (PAT) for state patrol officers (women, n = 19; men, n = 256) using archived data. Physical fitness was assessed by 2.4 km run time (2.4 R), body fat % (BF), 1 min sit-up (SU), 1-min push-up (PU), the vertical jump (VJ), and the sit-and-reach test (SR). Principal components analysis (PCA) of the entire sample revealed that dynamic fitness (DF), related 2.4 R, SU, PU, VJ, & BF, explained 49% of variance in performance in the PAT. Lower back and hamstring flexibility explained a further 18% of variance. Law-enforcement agencies using a standard job-specific test to screen the occupational fitness of its members may use fitness tests to make fitness recommendations. Officers should prioritize developing aerobic fitness, muscular endurance, lower-body power, and flexibility to help meet the demands of occupational performance.

Physical fitness: Differences between initial hiring to academy in law enforcement recruits who graduate or separate from academy

BACKGROUND

Law enforcement agencies often include fitness testing as part of the hiring process. However, it can be months from this testing to when a recruit starts academy.

OBJECTIVE

To determine fitness changes from hiring to academy in recruits who graduate (GRAD) or separate (SEP; do not complete) from academy.

METHODS

Analysis on recruits from one agency, split into GRAD (n = 436) and SEP (n = 78) groups, was conducted. These tests were conducted during initial hiring and academy: push-ups, sit-ups, and arm ergometer revolutions in 60 s; 75-yard pursuit run (75PR); and 2.4 km run. Data were analyzed via a two-way repeated measures ANOVA. Change scores were derived between hiring and academy data for both groups, and analyzed via independent samples t-tests.

RESULTS

Push-ups, 75PR, arm ergometer, and 2.4 km run generally improved (p≤0.001). There were no significant between-group interactions or differences in performance changes for GRAD and SEP recruits. SEP recruits tended to have lesser fitness test performance compared to GRAD recruits.

CONCLUSIONS

GRAD and SEP recruits showed some fitness improvements between initial hiring through to academy. However, SEP recruits with lesser muscular endurance, running speed, and aerobic capacity during hiring did not substantially improve by academy, which likely impacted their academy survivability.

With great power comes great ability: Extending research on fitness characteristics that influence work sample test battery performance in law enforcement recruits

BACKGROUND

Fitness could influence task performance in police officers. Limited research details relationships between different fitness characteristics and police-specific tasks.

OBJECTIVE

Determine relationships between anaerobic and aerobic capacity with police-specific task performance.

METHODS

Data for 308 recruits was analysed. Fitness tests included: push-ups, sit-ups, and mountain climbers (muscular endurance); pull-ups (strength); vertical jump (VJ) and 2 kg medicine ball throw (MBT; power); 75-yard pursuit run (75PR; change-of-direction speed); 201 m run (anaerobic capacity); 2.4 km run and multistage fitness test (aerobic capacity). Police tasks included: 99-yard obstacle course (99OC); 74.84 kg body drag (BD); chain link fence (CLF) and solid wall (SW) climbs; and 500-yard run (500R). Partial correlations controlling for sex and linear regression calculated relationships between fitness and job tasks.

RESULTS

99OC correlated with all assessments; BD only with 75PR. CLF related to the power and aerobic capacity tests, pull-ups, and 201 m run. SW related to VJ, 75PR, pull-ups, sit-ups, 201 m run, and aerobic capacity. 500R related to all except the MBT and 2.4 km run. 75PR and VJ predicted 4/5 tasks.

CONCLUSIONS

Police research has shown the importance of muscular endurance and aerobic capacity. Specific to this studies' correlations, the value of power and change-of-direction speed development for task performance was indicated.

Skeletal Muscle Mass and Fat Mass Relationships With Physical Fitness Test Performance in Law Enforcement Recruits Before Academy

ABSTRACT

Lockie, RG, Carlock, BN, Ruvalcaba, TJ, Dulla, JM, Orr, RM, Dawes, JJ, and McGuire, MB. Skeletal muscle mass and fat mass relationships with physical fitness test performance in law enforcement recruits before academy. J Strength Cond Res 35(5): 1287-1295, 2021-The purpose of this study was to analyze relationships between skeletal muscle mass percentage (SMM%) and fat mass percentage (FM%) relative to fitness test performance in law enforcement recruits. Retrospective analysis was conducted on 338 recruits (271 men and 67 women) from 4 academy classes. Skeletal muscle mass percentage and FM% were measured using cost-effective and practical bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) equipment that used hand and foot placement. The fitness tests included grip strength; vertical jump; 75-yard pursuit run; 2-kg medicine ball throw (MBT); push-ups and sit-ups completed in 60 seconds; and the 20-m multistage fitness test. Partial correlations controlling for sex-derived relationships between SMM%, FM%, and the tests. Recruits were split into quartile groups for SMM% and FM% (group 1 had the lowest SMM% or highest FM% and group 4 the highest SMM% or lowest FM%). A 1-way multivariate analysis of variance (MANOVA), with sex as a covariate and Bonferroni post-hoc, compared between-group results. Skeletal muscle mass percentage correlated with all fitness tests expect for MBT; FM% with all but grip strength and MBT (r = ±0.107-0.293). Greater SMM% or lesser FM% tended to relate to better fitness test performance. The MANOVA data indicated groups 3 and 4 (better SMM% or FM% profiles) exhibited superior fitness than group 1 (poorest SMM% or FM% profile) (p ≤ 0.048). Recruits should ideally increase SMM% and decrease FM% before academy to optimize fitness training and testing performance, although specific guidelines should be agency specific. Staff could use BIA to monitor body composition during academy to indicate how recruits are tolerating training.