A Descriptive Analysis of the Current State of Peace Officer Standards and Training Physical Fitness Requirements across the USA.

Abstract

Many law enforcement organizations are experiencing recruitment and retention challenges, of which physical fitness can be a factor. The study purpose was to collate information from Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST) Commission staff in each USA state to document current fitness mandates and policies for recruits/officers. A 10-question survey was allocated to an appropriate representative from every state POST organization. The survey collected information regarding minimum state-mandated fitness standards for academy entry and exit; minimum state-mandated requirements for fitness programming, including safety plans; education/training requirements for fitness training instructors; and minimum state-mandated fitness standards for incumbent officers. The response rate was 98% (49/50 states). Fewer than half of the states mandated: age- and gender-neutral statewide academy entry fitness tests (29%; n=14); ability-based fitness training (24%; n=12); minimum education or formal certifications for fitness training instructors (45%; n=22); statewide collection of fitness (25%; n=12) or injury (45%; n=18) data; a statewide fitness training safety plan (40%; n=19); age- and gender-neutral exit fitness tests for recruits/students (35%; n=17); and officer fitness standards (8%; n=4). Only thirteen states (27%) had an active work group focusing on survey topics. POST Commissions should be proactive in reviewing minimum fitness requirements for academies, and staff should continue and/or expand fitness education. Resources are available for POST Commissions to design/update safety plans and address other findings. Although difficult to mandate fitness standards for officers, they should be provided resources to remain physically active. Implementing these practices via appropriate policies should assist with personnel health and retention.