Information

Information Home

Annual Reports Col. E. C. Dothard Safety Education Museum Department History Department Mission Statement Directors - Retired Division Majors - Retired Employment Javelin Patrol Cars Personnel Killed in the Line of Duty History 1935-1990

Physical Fitness Entry Level Standards for State Trooper Applicants

All applicants for the position of state trooper in training are required to meet specific physical fitness standards.

Training for law enforcement officers has shown that there is a liability risk to the officer and agency if officers are not trained and do not maintain appropriate levels of fitness for performing critical tasks. There are 12 essential/critical physical tasks common to all law enforcement officers:

• walking
• running short and moderate distances in foot pursuit
• climbing stairs and ladders
• jumping and dodging obstacles
• lifting and carrying objects and people
• dragging and pulling objects and people
• pushing and pulling heavy objects
• bending and reaching
• using short-and moderate-duration force with subjects
• using restraining devices
• using restraining/control holds
• using hands/feet for self defense

To insure minimum levels of fitness, all applicants will be tested during the hiring process to determine their physical ability and physical agility levels. The following information describes the testing process, as well as the minimum standard required to be considered for hiring.

Peace Officers Standards and Training Commission POSTC Physical Agility/Ability Test

The Peace Officers Standards and Training Commission test begins with the applicant pushing a standard patrol vehicle, in neutral, a distance of 15 feet. The applicant then runs a short distance and climbs either a six-foot wall or chain link fence. Next, the applicant proceeds to an obstacle similar to a small window and crawls through. The applicant then sprints to a balance beam elevated approximately four inches off the ground. After walking the length of the balance beam the applicant drags a 165-pound dummy 15 feet. There is a 90-second time limit for the entire test.

The Peace Officers Standards and Training Commission (POSTC) Physical Ability/Agility Test has been validated for content, is gender-and age-neutral, and is patterned after the Cooper Clinic's approved cardiovascular fitness and dynamic strength tests. All applicants are held to the same fitness standard.

The POSTC Physical Ability Test consists of three events:

• 1.5-mile timed run
• one-minute push-ups
• one-minute sit-ups

Push-ups

The applicant is given ample time to warm up prior to these events. The applicant performs as many standard push-ups as he/she can in one minute. Twenty-two push-ups in 60 seconds is required to pass this test.

Sit-ups

The applicant performs as many standard sit-ups as he/she can in one minute. Twenty-five sit-ups in 60 seconds is required to pass this test.

1.5-mile Run

The applicant is required to run exactly 1.5 miles on a flat, level course. A minimum time of 15 minutes and 28 seconds is required to pass this portion of the test.

Failure of any one of the above three events or the 90 second agility test constitutes a failure of the entire POSTC Physical Ability/Agility Test.

How do I prepare for this test?

To meet the standards required to pass the POSTC Agility and Ability tests, you must assess your current fitness level. Perform the POSTC Ability Test according to the outline provided. Record your results and compare them to the standards set. Once you know how you stand relative to the required minimum, prepare yourself for the actual test by following these guidelines. Upper body and abdominal strength can be enhanced by performing a well-rounded weight training routine at least two days per week. The following is a sample routine: shoulder press, bench press, arm curls, lat pull down, push-ups and sit-ups. For each exercise except sit-ups and push-ups, select a weight which enables you to perform eight to 12 repetitions without excessive strain. As you progress and increase the number of repetitions, increase the weight to keep your repetitions constant. For cardiovascular endurance, begin jogging slowly and gradually increase your pace to meet your time and distance goals. Maintain good posture while you jog and concentrate on good, deep breathing. Wear well-fitting, padded athletic shoes.

The following is suggested:

Week	Distance (miles)	Duration	Times A Week
1	2.0	22.30	4-5
2	2.0	22.00	4-5
3	2.25	24.45	4-5
4	2.25	24.00	4-5
5	2.5	27.30	4-5
6	2.5	27.00	4-5
7	2.75	30.15	5
8	2.75	30,00	5
9	3.0	33.00	5
10	3.0	32.00	5

As you increase your mileage and decrease your time, you will increase your endurance. Periodically perform the POSTC Ability/Agility Test to chart your progress.

STOP EXERCISING IMMEDIATELY IF ANY OF THESE SYMPTOMS OCCUR AND SEE YOUR PHYSICIAN BEFORE RESUMING EXERCISE:

• Pain or pressure in the chest, abdomen, neck, jaw or arms
• Unaccustomed shortness of breath
• Nausea or vomiting
• Dizziness or fainting
• Irregular pulse, particularly when previously regular
• Extreme fatigue
• Slow recovery from exercise

Summary

The physical fitness standards for hiring as Alabama state troopers are defined in the POSTC Physical Ability/Agility Test.

Each applicant is given one re-test. Re-test dates will be issued to the applicant at the time of their first attempts. All events are pass/fail. No extra points will be awarded for extra repetitions.

Applicants who fail the re-test, but who are otherwise qualified, may be considered for hiring in the future and are encouraged to work toward meeting the requires physical fitness standards.