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Dawes, JJ, Lopes dos Santos, M, Kornhauser, C, Holmes, RJ, Alvar, BA, Lockie, RG, and Orr, RM. Longitudinal changes in health and fitness measures among state patrol officers by sex. J Strength Cond Res XX(X): 000-000, 2022-Research suggests that police officers lose fitness as a result of their policing vocation with occupational factors like stress, shift work, poor sleep, and poor diet all contributors to this loss The purpose of this research was to measure changes in fitness test scores of qualified police officers over a 5-year period. Archived fitness data for 523 state patrol officers (n = 494 men; 29 women) from one agency were used for this analysis. These tests included 60-second sit-up [SU] and push-up [PU] scores (muscular endurance), vertical jump height [VJ] (lower-body power), and 20-m multistage fitness test (aerobic capacity). A series of paired-samples t-tests and effect size calculations were used to investigate mean differences in fitness tests score at the beginning and end of a 5-year period. The paired-samples t test showed significant tests score decreases among male officers over the 5-year period in VJ, PU, and V̇o2max,, with no differences observed in SU performance. Small effect sizes were observed in both VJ (g = -0.20) and PU (g = -0.27) with a trivial effect size observed in changes to V̇o2max (g = -0.14). In contrast, significant improvements in performance were observed in SU performance among female officers, with a small effect size (g = 0.38). No other significant differences were found in female measures. Whether at an organizational or individual level, annual fitness assessments for police officers can serve to educate and motivate officers regarding their personal fitness and potentially slow the negative impact of aging on health, fitness, and performance in these populations.

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 36(7): 2018-2022, 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 (p0.001). 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.

Lockie, RG, Orr, RM, and Dawes, JJ. Slowing the path of time: Age-related and normative fitness testing data for police officers from a health and wellness program. J Strength Cond Res 36(3): 747-756, 2022-This study investigated the effects of age on the fitness of police officers participating in a health and wellness program. Normative percentile rank data were also produced for each fitness test for each year, considering age and sex. Archival data from 2018 (170 men and 39 women) and 2019 (194 men and 44 women) were analyzed. Data included estimated maximal aerobic capacity (V̇o2max), sit and reach, push-ups, vertical jump (VJ), grip strength, sit-ups, and bench press ratio. The officers in each year were grouped by age: 20-29, 30-39, 40-49, and 50+ years. A univariate analysis of covariance with Bonferroni's post hoc adjustment determined significant between-group differences. In 2018, the 40-49 and 50+ groups had a lower V̇o2max, lesser sit and reach, VJ, and grip strength, and completed fewer push-ups and sit-ups than the younger groups (p ≤ 0.027). In 2019, the 40-49 and 50+ groups had a lower V̇o2max, lesser sit and reach, VJ, grip strength, and bench press ratio, and completed fewer push-ups than the younger groups (p ≤ 0.034). There were no significant differences between the 20-29 and 30-39 groups. The percentile ranks demonstrated that except for sit and reach, most female officers were placed in the 0-19% ranks. Even for officers participating in a health and wellness program, those 40+ years old tended to have lesser fitness than younger officers. Older officers may have transitioned into roles requiring less physical activity, so should be encouraged to participate in health and wellness programs. The percentile ranks provide comparative data for practitioners and reinforce the need for female and older officers to complete specific fitness training.

This study investigated the predictive abilities of fitness tests relative to academy graduation in firefighter trainees. Archival fitness test data from 305 trainees were analyzed, including: 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 a 91.44-m farmers carry with 18-kg kettlebells. Within the department, trainees were allocated points for each test. Trainees were split into graduated (245 males, 16 females) or released (29 males, 15 females) groups. Independent samples t-tests and effect sizes calculated between-group fitness test differences (raw and scaled points). To provide a binary definition for the sensitivity/specificity analysis, trainees were defined as those scoring 60+ points for a test, and those scoring 0 points. For each test, the binary result (graduated/released) was plotted against the trainee’s test performance (60+ Points/0 Points). Receiver operating curves were plotted for each fitness test, and the area under the curve (AUC) determined accuracy. Trainees who graduated performed more push-ups, pull-ups, and leg tucks than released trainees, and scored more points in all tests (p≤0.005; d=0.34–1.41). Pull-ups, BOMBT, leg tuck, and the farmer’s carry had high sensitivity (>80% true positive rate); the IAT had high specificity (83.3% for the true negative rate). Metronome push-ups, BOMBT points, and total points had fair accuracy for predicting academy graduation (AUC=0.709–0.754). While the data demonstrated that trainees who graduated tended to have better total-body muscular strength, endurance, and power, fitness tests may not be appropriate as a sole predictor for academy graduation.

This study investigated traditional training (TT) versus ability-based training (ABT) in custody assistant recruits. Retrospective analysis was conducted on two recruit classes who completed an 8-week academy. The TT group (18 males, 13 females) followed a physical training model where recruits completed the same exercises with the same intensity; the ABT group (17 males, 12 females) had exercises tailored towards their ability. Pre- and post-academy, recruits were assessed in: body mass; body fat percentage (BF%); resting heart rate (RHR); blood pressure (BP); waist circumference (WC); waist-to-hip ratio (WHR); grip strength; push-ups; sit-ups; YMCA step test recovery HR; 201-m run; and 2.4-km run. Independent samples t-tests evaluated between-class pre-test differences, with significance set at p ≤ 0.05. Paired samples t-tests (p ≤ 0.05) detected within-group training changes. Change scores were calculated for each variable; independent samples t-tests (p ≤ 0.05) compared change scores between groups. The TT group had lower BF%, BP, and WC; and were superior in sit-ups and the 2.4-km run before training. After academy, the TT recruits improved WHR, grip strength, recovery HR, 201-m run, and 2.4-km run, but increased diastolic BP. The ABT recruits decreased BF%, RHR, and WC, and improved push-ups, sit-ups, recovery HR, 201-m run, and the 2.4-km run. ABT recruits had greater positive changes in BF%, RHR, diastolic BP, and sit-ups. TT and ABT recruits generally experienced favorable fitness changes; the degree of positive change tended to be greater for ABT recruits for select tests. Coupled with the diastolic BP increase for TT recruits, this may provide evidence for ABT.

Acetohydroxamic acid (AHA) has been proposed for inclusion in advanced, single-cycle, used nuclear fuel reprocessing solvent systems for the reduction and complexation of plutonium and neptunium ions. For this application, a detailed description of the fundamental degradation of AHA in dilute aqueous nitric acid is required. To this end, we present a comprehensive, multiscale computer model for the coupled radiolytic and hydrolytic degradation of AHA in aqueous sodium nitrate and nitric acid solutions. Rate coefficients for the reactions of AHA and hydroxylamine (HA) with the oxidizing nitrate radical were measured for the first time using electron pulse radiolysis and used as inputs for the kinetic model. The computer model results are validated by comparison to experimental data from steady-state gamma ray irradiations, for which the agreement is excellent. The presented model accurately predicts the yields of the major degradation products of AHA: acetic acid, HA, nitrous oxide, and molecular hydrogen.

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.

This study investigated body composition and fitness test relationships from firefighters participating in a health and wellness program and categorized firefighters according to population norms relative to sex and age. Data from 270 firefighters (men = 258, women = 12) were analyzed, including body composition (body mass index [BMI], body fat percentage [BF%], waist circumference [WC], waist-to-hip ratio) and fitness (sit-and-reach, grip strength, leg press, crunches, push-ups, maximal aerobic capacity [V̇O2max]) tests. Mann–Whitney U-test analysis (p < 0.05) showed that male firefighters had a greater WC, WHR, grip strength and leg press. Female firefighters had a greater BF% and better sit-and-reach. Partial correlations controlling for sex indicated 22/24 correlations between body composition and fitness were significant (r = −0.143–−0.640). ~52% of firefighters were overweight, and 25% were Obesity Class I-III. ~76% had an increased risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) considering BMI and WC. ~22% were fatter than average-to-overfat considering BF%. Most firefighters (73–94%) were good-to-excellent in sit-and-reach, grip strength, and push-ups; average-to-well above average in crunches; average-to-above average in leg press; and had good-to-superior V̇O2max. Although most firefighters had better fitness compared to the general population, many had increased CVD risk. The data highlighted the need for comprehensive approaches to improving firefighter health and decreasing CVD risk.

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.

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 assessments for tactical occupations (e.g., military, law enforcement, and emergency services) can include predictive tests of anaerobic power, cardiovascular fitness, muscular endurance, muscular power, strength, agility, and/or simulated occupational tasks. Not only can these tests be used to assess the ability of someone to undertake the job role but they can be used to determine injury risk, training failure, and/or general health. This review discusses different uses for physical fitness assessments and considerations for their use in tactical populations.

This study explored whether Year 1 school children exposed to a 12-week classroom-based gross motor program progressed differently than Year 1 children undertaking their regular school program in motor proficiency, mathematics, and reading outcomes. Fifty-five Australian Year 1 school children (25 boys, 30 girls, mean age 6.77 ± 0.40 years) were exposed to either (i) their normal school program (Class N) or (ii) a 12-week program comprised of gross motor circuits and physically active: a) reading lessons (Class R) or b) mathematics lessons (Class M). Motor proficiency and academic performance in mathematics and reading were assessed using the Bruininks–Oseretsky Test of Motor Proficiency (2nd Edition) and the Wechsler Individual Achievement Test—2nd Edition—Australian Standardised Edition, respectively. Differences in outcomes between classes following the 12-week program were assessed. Mean change scores for the mathematics composite were significantly greater for participants in Class R (9.61 ± 5.62, p = .001) and Class M (7.57 ± 5.79, p = .019) than for participants in Class N (0.76 ± 8.00). Mean change scores for reading (11.54 ± 7.51, p = .017) and total motor composites (6.12 ± 5.07, p = .034) were also significantly greater for participants in Class M than Class N (4.47 ± 3.50 and 0.82 ± 4.38 respectively). A 12-week classroom-based gross motor program may be beneficial for motor skill development and learning in Year 1 school children. This pilot evaluation may usefully inform future experimental studies to further investigate whether classroom-based motor skill programs have a beneficial effect on motor proficiency and academic outcomes in children in the early years of primary school.

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.

PurposeThe aims of this study were to evaluate fitness levels in a cohort of police trainees and compare these results to other police trainees and the general population.Design/methodology/approachRetrospective data for 274 male and 152 female police trainees were supplied. Measures included height, body mass and physical appraisal test (PAT; 2.4 km run, vertical jump, push-ups and grip strength) results, assessed twice, prior to commencement of training, separated by several months. Wilcoxon signed rank tests were used to analyze non-parametric initial and final PAT scores and Mann–WhineyUtests were used to determine variance between groups.FindingsMale trainees were significantly quicker in the run (−12%,p p p p p = 0.002).Originality/valueWhen compared to the general population from which they were drawn and to other law enforcement trainees, the police trainees in this study were quicker, more powerful and stronger. While there was no loss of fitness between initial and final PAT performance, a conditioning program, spanning the periods between initial and final PAT may be of benefit to increase fitness prior to training commencement especially for female trainees who were generally less fit than, yet must complete the same training as, male trainees.

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

Lockie, R, Dawes, JJ, Sakura, T, Schram, B, and Orr, RM. Relationships between physical fitness assessment measures and a workplace task-specific physical assessment among police officers: a retrospective cohort study. J Strength Cond Res XX(X): 000-000, 2022-Police officers are required to perform physically demanding occupational tasks and, as such, require an adequate level of fitness. The aim of this study was to investigate relationships between a physical fitness assessment test (PAT) and a task-specific physical competency test (PCT). Retrospective data for 307 police trainees who completed the PAT and the PCT were provided. The PAT comprised a 2.4-km run, vertical jump, push-ups, and grip strength measures. The PCT, a single timed event, consisted of 10 occupational specific tasks (e.g., trailer push, wall climb, window climb through), which were completed within a 400-m obstacle course. Pearson's correlations were used to investigate relationships between the PAT and the PCT. Linear regression analyses were conducted to determine whether PAT predicted PCT performance. All PAT measures significantly correlated with PCT performance with the strength of the correlations ranging from moderate (vertical jump; r = -0.420, p0.01) to strong (2.4 km run; r = 0.639, p0.01). The highest predictive relationship was observed with 2.4-km run (r2 = 0.409), and the lowest predictive relationship was observed with the vertical jump (r2 = 0.177). The results of this study highlight the importance of aerobic capacity (2.4 km run), muscular endurance (push-ups), strength (grip strength), and power (vertical jump) for successful performance during the PCT. These physical attributes should be developed in new police trainees before attending recruit training if viable and form part of any return-to-work reconditioning frameworks for both police trainees and officers.

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.

Lockie, RG, Dawes, JJ, Dulla, JM, Orr, RM, and Hernandez, E. Physical fitness, sex considerations, and academy graduation for law enforcement recruits. J Strength Cond Res 34(12): 3356-3363, 2020-This study investigated the influence of fitness on academy graduation, and any between-sex differences, in law enforcement recruits. Data collected at the start of 4 training academies were retrospectively analyzed, including age, height, and body mass; waist circumference; waist-to-hip ratio; grip strength; vertical jump (VJ); 75-yard pursuit run; 2-kg medicine ball throw (MBT); push-ups, sit-ups, and arm ergometer revolutions in 60 seconds; and 20-m multistage fitness test (20MSFT) shuttles. Recruits were categorized into graduated (GRAD = 269) and separated (did not graduate; SEP = 42) groups. SEP recruits were not split according to separation reasons, just whether they did or not. This categorization also occurred for male subjects (GRAD = 228; SEP = 32) and female subjects (GRAD = 41; SEP = 10). Independent samples t-tests calculated between-group differences for all recruits combined, male subjects, and female subjects. Correlations and stepwise linear regression calculated relationships between the data and graduation. The t-test (p ≤ 0.016) and correlation (r = ±0.137-0.296; p < 0.05) data indicated that SEP recruits (both sexes combined) were older and performed poorer in every fitness test except grip strength and VJ. SEP male subjects were older and performed poorer in all tests except grip strength (p ≤ 0.009). SEP female subjects scored lower in the arm ergometer (p = 0.008). The regression equation for all recruits found that age, 20MSFT (aerobic fitness), MBT (upper-body power), and arm ergometer (upper-body endurance) were academy graduation predictors (r = 0.169; p < 0.001). For the male recruits, the predictors were age, MBT, and 20MSFT (r = 0.182; p ≤ 0.001), and for female recruits, arm ergometer and 20MSFT (r = 0.213; p ≤ 0.003). Recruits should improve multiple fitness aspects, including muscular endurance, power, and aerobic fitness, to enhance graduation potential.

This study investigated whether: law enforcement recruits could complete a 74.84-kg (165-lb) body drag without specific training; relationships between the body drag and absolute and relative isometric grip and leg/back strength could be established to assist with training recommendations; a strength baseline needed to complete the 74.84-kg body drag could be established. Retrospective analysis on a recruit class (72 males, 21 females) from one agency was conducted. Recruits completed the body drag, and had strength assessed by hand grip and leg/back dynamometers in the week before academy. The body drag required the recruit to lift the dummy to standing and drag it 9.75 m as quickly as possible. Independent samples t-tests calculated between-sex differences in the drag and strength measures. Recruits were ranked according to drag time to describe the strength of recruits that could not perform the task. Pearson’s correlations and a stepwise linear regression calculated relationships between the body drag and isometric strength. Male recruits completed the drag faster and were stronger than females (p < 0.001). Only two females could not complete the drag, and they had leg/back strength below 100 kg. Greater absolute (r = -0.599 and -0.677) and relative (r = -0.261 and -0.322) grip (combined score) and leg/back strength, respectively, related to a faster drag. Absolute leg/back strength predicted the body drag (r2 = 0.444). Improving absolute isometric grip and leg/back strength could enhance dragging ability. A minimum isometric leg/back strength score of 100 kg may be needed to perform a 74.84-kg body drag.

The purpose of this study was to explore the relationship between two measures of trunk muscular endurance. Retrospective data for 520 male law enforcement officers (age 40.16 ± 7.71 years; height = 1.81 ± 0.07 m; body mass = 94.4 ± 15.01 kg) belonging to a single US based law enforcement agency were used for this analysis. The data provided included: age, height, body mass, sit-up repetitions completed in 1-min (SU) and time to completion for the isometric prone plank (IPP). A Pearson’s product correlation coefficient was used to determine the relationships between the SU and IPP. Significant (P

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 XX(X): 000-000, 2020-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.

PurposeTo determine the relationship between metabolic fitness test scores and performance in police occupational tasks.MethodsRetrospective data from 106 law enforcement officers who completed two metabolic fitness assessments [anaerobic: a 20-m (10-m and 20-m splits) sprint, aerobic: 20 m Multi-Stage Fitness Test (20 m-MSFT)] and three routine occupational tasks [1.22 m Fence jump (FJ), 8.5 m Victim Drag (VD with 102.3 kg) and “Get-up” (GU)] were collected. A Person’s correlation coefficient and a standard multiple regression were used to assess the relationship between and predictive ability of, respectively, the fitness tests scores and performance on occupational tasks.ResultsThere was a significant positive correlation between the 10-m sprint scores and FJ (r = 0.524,P r = 0.528,P r = 0.486,P r = 0.573,P r = 0.603,P r = 0.533,P r = − 0.360,P r = − 0.266,P = 0.012) and GU (r = − 0.375,P ConclusionHigh levels of metabolic fitness correlated with faster performance in police officer occupational tasks, particularly ones of an anaerobic nature (i.e. the maximal sprint tests). In addition to typical aerobic fitness conditioning, anaerobic fitness conditioning could be vital for optimal performance in physically demanding tasks required of police officer.

Fire academy training classes may have trainees with a range of different fitness capabilities. Documentation of trainee fitness could indicate the need for flexibility in physical training emphases. Therefore, data from six academy classes (males = 274; females = 31) were analyzed, including: Illinois agility test (IAT), push-ups, pull-ups, leg tucks, multistage fitness test, backwards overhead 4.54 kg medicine ball throw (BOMBT), 10-repetition maximum deadlift, and 18 kg kettlebell farmers carry. A one-way ANOVA, with the Bonferroni post hoc test, calculated between-class fitness differences. Normative fitness test data were produced via percentile ranks. Classes 5 and 6 had the most females (n = 15). Class 1 completed the IAT faster than all classes (p ≤ 0.009). Classes 1 and 4 had a further BOMBT distance than Classes 5 and 6, and Class 3 outperformed Class 6 (p ≤ 0.044). Class 4 completed more leg tucks than Class 5 (p = 0.047). Class 1 had a greater deadlift than Classes 3, 4, and 6, and Class 2 outperformed Classes 3–6 (p ≤ 0.036). Class 3 was slower in the farmers carry compared to all classes (p ≤ 0.002). Percentile rankings showed that most females (48–100%) were in the 0–29% rank. Staff should implement individualized programs where appropriate for trainees as cohort fitness differences exist. Female trainees may need targeted maximal strength and power development.

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.

Background: Law enforcement is a dangerous, stressful, and health-threatening occupation. This study investigated the association between demographic factors including sex, age, and types of law enforcement occupation and described self-reported barriers to healthy and enjoyable diets within a cohort of law enforcement personnel. Methods: This mixed-methods study explored cross-sectional data from the Perceived Barriers to Healthy Eating validated survey. The survey included eight questions obtaining quantitative data and two open ended question obtaining qualitative data. A framework thematic analysis using the theory of planned behavior was undertaken to describe self-reported barriers to a healthy and enjoyable dietary intake. Results: 159 participants (median age = 27 (range 19–60) years; 74% males) were surveyed. In general, demographic factors are not associated with the dietary beliefs and behavior of law enforcement personnel. Self-reported barriers (generated themes) to a healthy and enjoyable diet included individual preferences, social influences, internal drive, capacity to change and occupational influences, which broadly aligned with the theory of planned behavior. Conclusions: Dietary intake in law enforcement personnel is impacted by occupational considerations, including busy schedules, long working hours, inconsistent meal breaks, tiredness, and shift work. The study provides useful information to support dietary interventions.

Orr, RM, Robinson, J, Hasanki, K, Talaber, KA, Schram, B, and Roberts, A. The relationship between strength measures and task performance in specialist tactical police. J Strength Cond Res 36(3): 757-762, 2022-Specialist tactical police officers (STPOs) carry heavier on-body loads than generalist police officers. Improvements in strength may mitigate the impacts of these heavier loads. The aim of this investigation was to determine the correlations between absolute and relative strength measures and occupational task performance in STPOs. Retrospective data were provided for 47 male specialist police officers from an elite Australian police unit. Data included body mass (mean = 89.0 ± 8.58 kg), strength measures (1 repetition maximum measures for a bench press, squat, deadlift, and pull-up), and task performance measures (85-kg victim drag wearing 15 kg of operational load and 5-km pack march wearing 40 kg of operational load). Pearson's correlations were conducted to determine relationships between measures and were plotted on a linear regressions model. Significant, moderate to strong correlations were found between all strength measures and victim drag performance and significant negative moderate correlations between relative bench press, absolute and relative squat, and absolute and relative pull-up and pack march times. The absolute deadlift had the strongest correlation to the victim drag (r = 0.747, p0.01) while the relative pull-up showed the strongest correlation with pack march performance (r = -0.466, p0.01). The requirement to lift a portion of the dummy off the ground during the victim drag may explain the increased importance of absolute strength while the requirement to transport load affixed to the body may explain the importance of relative strength requirements. Improvements in absolute and relative upper- and lower-body strength may improve task performance in this population.

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.

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.

Lockie, RG, Dawes, JJ, Orr, RM, and Dulla, JM. Recruit fitness standards from a large law enforcement agency: Between-class comparisons, percentile rankings, and implications for physical training. J Strength Cond Res 34(4): 934-941, 2020-Law enforcement can be a physically demanding profession. Many agencies use a "one-size-fits-all" academy training approach, which may not be optimal for all recruits. There is also little information that benchmarks fitness of law enforcement recruits. The purpose of this study was to analyze between-academy class differences in fitness, as well as produce normative data for the development of strength and conditioning programs. A retrospective analysis of 908 recruits (761 men and 147 women), comprising 11 classes from one agency, was used. Fitness assessment data included push-ups, sit-ups, and mountain climbers in 120 seconds; pull-ups; 201-m run; and 2.4-km run. A one-way analysis of variance with a Bonferroni post hoc adjustment revealed that fitness varied significantly between classes. Class 11 completed less sit-ups than 6 other classes (p ≤ 0.033) and were slower in the 201-m and 2.4-km run than 5 classes (p ≤ 0.005). Class 7 completed less push-ups than 3 classes (p ≤ 0.036) and less mountain climbers and were slower in the 201-m run than 5 classes (p ≤ 0.005). Individual recruit analysis and percentile data indicated a wide spread of all assessment results and the effects upon female recruits. For example, 81% of women completed ≤2 pull-ups and were in the bottom 2 percentile bands; 72-76% of women were in the bottom 3 bands for push-ups and the 201-m run. Fitness varies from class-to-class, and female recruits will generally be less physically fit. Training staff should ideally implement individualized, ability-based programming where appropriate to train their recruits.

Lockie, RG, Hernandez, JA, Moreno, MR, Dulla, JM, Dawes, JJ, and Orr, RM. 2.4-km run and 20-m multistage fitness test relationships in law enforcement recruits after academy training. J Strength Cond Res 34(4): 942-945, 2020-The 2.4-km run and 20-m multistage fitness test (20MSFT) are common aerobic fitness tests in law enforcement. Previous research analyzed relationships between these tests in recruits, and indicated limited transferability due to disparate demands (direction changes and running intensity). However, the correlations between 2.4-km run and 20MSFT in recruits after academy training may be different, where recruits should be fitter and able to complete high-intensity running efforts. This study documented changes in and relationships between the 2.4-km run and 20MSFT in law enforcement recruits after academy training. Retrospective analysis on 6 academy classes (276 males and 50 females) from one agency was conducted. The 20MSFT and 2.4-km run were completed before and after academy training. Estimated V[Combining Dot Above]O2max was derived from 2.4-km run time and the 20MSFT shuttle number. Paired-samples t-tests ascertained whether the 2.4-km run and 20MSFT improved after academy. Correlations and linear regression derived relationships between the 2.4-km run and 20MSFT. Recruits improved in the 2.4-km run and 20MSFT (p < 0.01). There were significant correlations between the 2.4-km run and 20MSFT for all recruits (r = -0.49), males (r = -0.48), and females (r = -0.29). However, the regression equations for all recruits (r = 0.24), males (r = 0.23), and females (r = 0.08) were low. The results suggested that there were disparate aspects to the 2.4-km run and 20MSFT in law enforcement recruits after academy training. Although aerobic fitness improved, there are likely other aspects important to the 20MSFT not developed during academy (change-of-direction ability and high-intensity running). This could impact the between-test relationship.

BACKGROUND - Height and body mass are often self-reported by study participants. However, the accuracy of this data compared to measured values is limited in tactical trainee populations. This study's purpose was to compare the accuracy of self-reported height and body mass to measured values within a US law enforcement cadet population, and determine how these estimations affected BMI classifications. METHODS - Self-reported and measured body height and body mass for twenty-six (n = 26) male and female cadets (males - age: 31.32 ± 10.04 years; measured height: 178.07 ± 9.87 cm; measured body mass: 92.44 ± 19.37 kg; females - age: 25.67 ± 1.53 years; measured body height: 168.17 ± 4.01cm; measured body mass: 78.94 ± 11.30 kg) were analyzed. RESULTS - Significant differences between estimated and measured height (p < 0.001), body mass (p < 0.05), but not BMI (p = 0.281) were revealed. CONCLUSION - Self-reported body height and body mass were not accurately reported when compared to measured values. However, reported resulted in accurate BMI classifications.

Introduction The intense training and occupational demands of military personnel place the individual at risk of serious injury. When they do occur, serious personal injuries (SPIs) can lead to medical discharge, mission compromise, and ongoing recurrence of problems. Prior to the implementation of any minimization strategies, an understanding of the causes of SPIs requires development. The aim of this study was to analyze the incidence rates and patterns of SPIs within the Australian Regular Army (ARA) and Australian Army Reserve (ARES). Methods Data for a 2-year period were obtained through the Work Health, Safety, Compensation, and Reporting database of the Australian Department of Defence. Records of SPIs were extracted, with details including: (a) the activity being performed when the injury was suffered; (b) the body location of injury; (c) the nature of injury; and (d) the mechanism of injury. Results were reported as number of SPIs and converted to SPIs/100 full-time equivalent (FTE) years of service. Results In total, 507 SPIs were reported over the two-year period (ARA = 466; ARES = 41). SPIs most commonly: occurred during combat training (n = 80; 0.13 SPIs/100 FTE years) and physical training (n = 66; 0.10 SPIs/100 FTE years); affected the head (n = 63; 0.10 SPIs/100 FTE years) and shoulders (n = 57; 0.09 SPIs/100 FTE years); and comprised fractures (n = 199; 0.19 SPIs/100 FTE years) and soft-tissue injuries (n = 103; 0.16 SPIs/100 FTE years). The most common mechanism of injury was falls (n = 132; 0.21 SPIs/100 FTE years) or contact with objects (n = 114; 0.18 SPIs/100 FTE years). When adjusted for service time, ARES personnel were found to report SPIs more frequently than ARA personnel (0.87 vs. 0.79/100 FTE years, respectively) giving an injury risk ratio (ARA:ARES) of 0.91 [95% CI = 0.66–1.25]. Conclusions Despite higher absolute numbers of SPIs occurring in ARA, ARES in fact report similar rates of SPIs when adjusted for service time. The natures and mechanisms of SPIs are also similar for both service types and therefore should be the focus of targeted programs to reduce such injuries.

Strength and power are important traits for law enforcement officers, but the relationship between these measures has yet to be determined in a law enforcement population. Furthermore, the nature for these relationships between officers of varying strength is not known. The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between strength and measures of power and to determine whether stronger officers portrayed greater power. Retrospective data for 543 male (age = 39.07 ± 8.04 years; height = 180.02 ± 15.14 cm; body mass = 92.73 ± 16.37 kg) officers from one agency were provided. Measures included isometric leg/back dynamometer (LBD) strength, a counter movement jump (CMJ) and further determined measures of lower body power [estimated anaerobic power in watts (PAPw)] and power to body mass ration (P:BM). Following an analysis by cohort, subgroup quartiles were created based off LBD strength [absolute (LBDa) and relative (LBDr)]. The strongest quartile (Q1) performed significantly better in CMJ and PAPw than the other groups, but not in P:BM. Significant (P ≤ 0.001) low-to-moderate positive correlations were found between LBDa and CMJ height (r = 0.388), PAPw (r = 0.606) and P:BM (r = 0.272) and between LBDr and CMJ (r = 0.556), P:BM (r = 0.642) and PAPw (r = 0.149). Only LBDr was significantly related to all power measures across all sub groups. The development of relative lower body strength may best prepare officers for power assessments (such as vertical jump assessments) as well as for occupational tasks that require power.

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.