NCJ Number
230748
Journal
Law and Order Volume: 58 Issue: 4 Dated: April 2010 Pages: 62-66
Date Published
April 2010
Length
5 pages
Annotation
This article describes the Physical Fitness Program developed and implemented by the St. Paul, MN Police Department.
Abstract
Studies have shown that there is a correlation between length of time on the job and decline in fitness/health of law enforcement officers. A solution proposed is mandatory fitness testing, as opposed to mandatory standards. This article outlines the components of the successful St. Paul, MN Police Department's Physical Fitness Program, which has been in existence for more than 25 years. The program consists of annual, mandatory fitness testing, not mandatory fitness standards, and is comprised of annual fitness testing, medical screening, and fitness and health promotion. For the St. Paul Police Department, having a physical fitness program has had a positive effect on each officer and on the department. Annual fitness testing has served as motivation for the officers to maintain a high level of fitness.