88 replies to this topic

[Lord Vader]

Most forces are now requiring candidate Specials to take and pass the job related fitness test. Although this detail is already on the main site, it is often here on the forum that people most often come looking for details of the test requirements, so here goes:

The three elements of this test are:

Endurance (aka bleep/beep/shuttle test) to level 5.4
During this element you have to run to and fro along a 15 metre track in time to a series of bleeps which progressively become faster. You have to run as long as possible before you can no longer keep up with the bleeps. You must reach at least level 5.4 in order to pass the fitness test. The total running time is about 3 minutes, 40 seconds.

Dynamic Strength - Push 34kg, Pull 35kg
This part of the test is measured on a machine which (in my experience at least!) looks like a large rowing machine with a seat at each end. In the first part of the test, you are pushing against the machine, in the second part, you are pulling against it. You do 3 'warm ups' then 5 maximum force pushes/pulls. You must reach at least 34 kg push strength, and 35 kg pull strength.

Grip Strength of 32kg (may be force specific, and may not happen in the force that you're applying for)
This final part of the test measures the grip strength in your hand using a device called a dynamometer. You grip it in your preferred hand get two attempts to record the maximum grip you can. The pass mark is 32 kg.

Performance on each of these provides a good indicator of your capability of performing various police tasks. The test elements are run consecutively and minimum standards need to be achieved on each.

If you fail to reach the minimum standard in one component of the test, you fail the whole test. If you don't pass the test at your first attempt you can re-take it. However, if you fail the test after three attempts your application will be halted and you will have to wait for at least six months before re-applying.

Although the test is not particularly hard, it does require a certain level of fitness and if you are unfit, out of condition, or overweight, then you may fail this test. Start your preparation as soon as possible - have a look at our suggested training programme, or if you prefer visit your gym or sports centre, explain what you need to do to pass, and get them to help you.

Edited by Lord Vader, 22 March 2012 - 05:32 PM.

[Jeebs]

LV, when was the grip test introduced?

[Police Constable 1]

LV, when was the grip test introduced?

Im sure it was scrapped, it was in use a few years ago but Im sure it was removed about 4 or 5 years ago due to it being classed as unfair

On another note, its a good article LV but it might be worth stressing that this is just for EW forces, Scotland I believe have higher levels and some have the 1.5mile run instead of the bleep run

Edited by Police Constable 1, 10 February 2012 - 01:31 AM.

[Jeebs]

I thought it must have been removed from the test, I can only remember doing a push/pull and a bleep test.

[VickiLouise]

No grip test for Derbyshire, I heard it was scrapped because it was unfair too

[Straightjacket]

Good that there is a piece here now for new starters worried about the tests. I wouldn't worry too much, anyone with a reasonable level of fitnes should pass ok.

The test used to be based around a foot chase scenario and was harder.

Level 8 for the Bleep test (the chase)
Timed figure of 8 cone sprint (the try grab them bit)
Push Pull (for the wrestling)
Grip test (control restraint/cuffing)
The collapse in a heap (or was that just me?)

It has become easier across the board and there were different levels for men and women.

[CmdKeen]

On another note, its a good article LV but it might be worth stressing that this is just for EW forces, Scotland I believe have higher levels and some have the 1.5mile run instead of the bleep run

There has been various chats amongst Scottish forces about whether to implement their fitness tests to specials. To my knowledge no-one is currently doing so. However it is obviously A Good Thing for a new special to be at the same level of fitness as a new probationary PC.

The standards are age and gender based so are "fair" in that sense and are roughly equivalent to the level the armed forces use. Different forces switch between the 1.5 mile run and the bleep test but you should be comfortable doing both. The L&B one takes place in a park with a slight incline so bear that in mind (you can at least practice on the course!).

In general (and this applies to the much easier E&W standards too) achieving the level on a treadmill is not sufficient to achieving it when actually running.

[Jess_em]

Also forgot to include that some forces require you to do a swimming test of 50m within 1min 30secs.

There is no grip test for D&C.

[hopeless_place]

For GMP was just push/pull & bleep test.

[FidelChazztro]

For GMP was just push/pull & bleep test.

That's the same for Hampshire too.

[andituk]

For GMP was just push/pull & bleep test.

^^ This is correct.

[XRegulator]

No grip test for Derbyshire, I heard it was scrapped because it was unfair too

Vicki/all, hi! Newbie to the site so please forgive me for throwing this one in. I did a grip test during my medical for DC specials before Christmas, so whilst it may not be part of the official fitness testing day alongside the bleep test and push/pull, it certainly happened during my own medical. Hope this helps clarify the situation for others.

[Shogy1]

I can remember when Grampian Police had a fitness test where you had to run round an obstacle course. I think it was run through some cones, , up and down ten I think) steps through a window, Under over and under beams then run along a plank I cant remember exactly how many times,(I seem to remember 3) and in a certain time limit.

[Layla]

I just want to say a great big thank you for all the help herein.
I am applying to be a BTP Special and this has been invaluable.
The forums and contributions have been very inspiring.
Thank you everyone.
Fingers crossed I will be recruited and contributing

[hopeless_place]

^^ This is correct.

That is literally the place we did it, and the instructor we had.

[andituk]

Yep, the guy doing the test in the yellow and black is one of the trainers too.

What dates have you been given for training?

[jackisback]

Could someone please elaborate on the bleep test for me please?
Some sources say that if you outrun the bleep, you have to wait for it to sound before setting off again. Other say that it's continuous. Which is it?
Regards,
Jackisback

[Police Constable 1]

Could someone please elaborate on the bleep test for me please?
Some sources say that if you outrun the bleep, you have to wait for it to sound before setting off again. Other say that it's continuous. Which is it?
Regards,
Jackisback

Someone posted this in another topic it should give you an idea

You have to get to the line, wait for the bleep then start to run again to the other line and wait for the beep, you cant sprint the required lengths in one go you have to wait for the bleeps

[Logitec2k4]

If you outrun the bleep in the first few levels then you must wait at the line until the bleep sounds before heading back. Ideally you use the first few shuttles to get pacing correct so that you just hit the line when the bleep sounds, that way you aren't standing about waiting for it!

[jackisback]

Someone posted this in another topic http://www.bridgefit...fulltrack_0.mp3 it should give you an idea

You have to get to the line, wait for the bleep then start to run again to the other line and wait for the beep, you cant sprint the required lengths in one go you have to wait for the bleeps

If you outrun the bleep in the first few levels then you must wait at the line until the bleep sounds before heading back. Ideally you use the first few shuttles to get pacing correct so that you just hit the line when the bleep sounds, that way you aren't standing about waiting for it!

Thanks for the replies; they're really helpful.

[LoneRanger]

I can remember when Grampian Police had a fitness test where you had to run round an obstacle course. I think it was run through some cones, , up and down ten I think) steps through a window, Under over and under beams then run along a plank I cant remember exactly how many times,(I seem to remember 3) and in a certain time limit.

This used to be referred to as the agility test. Originally it was part of the old Police Recruitment Fitness Test. It was a course (usually a figure of 8) of cones run over 27 seconds to test a candidates agility. It's widespread usage was stopped due to a number of injuries sustained whilst twisting around the cones.

[LoneRanger]

Please find attached the latest guidance on the Police Job-Related Fitness Test. This is the national NPIA Job-Related Fitness Test requirements. They were designed for the UK Police Service by Loughborough University. Some forces may choose to implement their own local procedures dependent upon whether or not they are carrying out internal or external recruitment and a very small number of forces have additional fitness test requirements dependent upon their specialism or geographic nature (i.e. Devon & Cornwall - 50m unaided swim in 1m30s).

Attached Files

•  Police-Recruitment-Fitness-Brochure-2012.pdf   246.28K   37 downloads

[jackisback]

Please find attached the latest guidance on the Police Job-Related Fitness Test. This is the national NPIA Job-Related Fitness Test requirements. They were designed for the UK Police Service by Loughborough University. Some forces may choose to implement their own local procedures dependent upon whether or not they are carrying out internal or external recruitment and a very small number of forces have additional fitness test requirements dependent upon their specialism or geographic nature (i.e. Devon & Cornwall - 50m unaided swim in 1m30s).

Very informative, thanks for sharing.

[tdcist]

I Need to start training!!!!! lol

Push/Pull I will be ok with, just a little concerned about the Bleep Test! Haven't done this since school!

[jackisback]

I Need to start training!!!!! lol

Push/Pull I will be ok with, just a little concerned about the Bleep Test! Haven't done this since school!

It's the opposite for me. I'm fairly confident about the Bleep Test, but I'm worried about the Push/Pull.