This article discusses the variability in physical testing outcomes for law enforcement recruits based on the ambient temperatures and relative humidity present on test day.

Neil Baumgartner, PhD, speaks at the 2013 TSAC Conference on the science and rationale behind the Air Force Fitness Test.

In this session from the NSCA’s 2017 TSAC Annual Training, Tim Doyle teaches about the complexity of developing tests and standards for tactical populations and the importance of sound science backing the tests and standards.

Fitness testing uses a battery of protocols recognized by the scientific community as both reliable and valid, and it measures important fitness constructs such as aerobic endurance, muscular strength, muscular endurance, power, agility, flexibility, and balance.

The focus of this article is to describe the physiological needs of soccer athletes and then provide assessments for testing endurance of athletes of various ages, abilities, and genders.

Physical assessments have evolved as a result of developments in scientific research, equipment loads, operational environments, and doctrine.

A physical assessment continues to be one of the best ways to evaluate and measure physical preparedness and readiness of a military unit for job-related tasks and future missions. Tactical facilitators must consider multiple factors when developing testing protocols and programs, including leadership support, limited resources, and training cycle time constraints.

By implementing a fitness assessment, a law enforcement agency can assess its officers and gather important data. As long as there are support mechanisms in place to assist the “at risk” officers—such as access to physical training instructors, occupational health professionals, or dietitians—the organization can ensure that its officers move towards becoming a healthier and more resilient workforce.

The following article provides a list of tests that could comprise a fitness assessment to measure overall fitness and health prior to, during, and after an academy training program.

Those who are in key decision-making positions should understand the importance of proper research, validation, and implementation procedures when developing physical fitness standards.