Relationships Between Strength and Power With the 74.84-kg (165-lb) and 90.72-kg (200-lb) Body Drags.

ABSTRACT: Moreno, MR, Dawes, JJ, Orr, RM, Dulla, JM, and Lockie, RG. Relationships between strength and power with the 74.84-kg (165-lb) and 90.72-kg (200-lb) body drags. J Strength Cond Res 38(7): 1305-1313, 2024-A body drag is an essential job task in law enforcement. It is purported that strength and power should contribute to this task, but there has been limited analysis. This study examined strength (1-repetition maximum hexagonal bar deadlift [1RM HBD]) and power (vertical jump [VJ], standing broad jump [SBJ]) relationships with the 74.84-kg and 90.72-kg body drags. Forty-three civilians (24 men and 19 women) completed the SBJ, VJ, and 1RM HBD in 1 session. Peak anaerobic power measured in watts (PAPw) was derived from the VJ. Relative measures were calculated from the SBJ, PAPw, and HBD. In another 2 sessions, subjects completed 74.84-kg and 90.72-kg drags in a counterbalanced order using 2 techniques: standard and adapted (time taken to pick dummy up from ground included in time). Independent samples t-tests compared the sexes and subjects who could or could not complete all drags. Partial correlations and stepwise regression, both controlling for sex, examined relationships between strength and power and the drags. In general, men outperformed women in almost all tests (p ≤ 0.024). Thirty-five subjects completed all drags and were stronger and more powerful than subjects who could not (p ≤ 0.011). The SBJ correlated with the 74.84-kg standard (r = -0.355) and 90.72-kg adapted (r = -0.373) drags; the VJ correlated with the 74.84-kg standard drag (r = -0.356). Peak anaerobic power measured in watts and 1RM HBD correlated with all drags (r = -0.382 to -0.668); PAPw was involved in all significant predictive relationships (explained variance = 34-62%). Absolute strength and power training should be a focus for recruits to enhance their ability to perform dragging tasks, especially with heavier masses.

Age-Related Differences in Body Fat and Fitness of Firefighters Participating in a Health and Wellness Program.

ABSTRACT: Lockie, RG, Dulla, JM, Higuera, D, Ross, K, Orr, RM, Dawes, JJ, and Ruvalcaba, TJ. Age-related differences in body fat and fitness of firefighters participating in a health and wellness program. J Strength Cond Res 38(6): 1127-1135, 2024-Fitness tends to decline, whereas body fat increases, with age, which could impact firefighter occupational performance later in their careers. Health and wellness program participation could reduce these age-related changes. Archival data from 270 firefighters (258 men and 12 women) from a health and wellness program were analyzed. Data included body mass index; body fat percentage (BF%); waist circumference (WC); waist-to-hip ratio (WHR); sit and reach; grip strength; absolute and relative predicted 1 repetition maximum (1RM) leg press; crunches; push-ups; and estimated maximal aerobic capacity (V̇o2max). Firefighters were grouped by age ≤29 (n = 29); 30-34 (n = 44); 35-39 (n = 38); 40-44 (n = 39); 45-49 (n = 48); 50-54 (n = 42); and 55+ (n = 30) years. A univariate analysis of covariance, with sex as a covariate and Bonferroni's post hoc adjustment, determined between-group differences. Effect sizes (d) were calculated. Key results included that the 55+ group had higher BF% and WC compared with the 3 youngest groups (p ≤ 0.002; d = 0.86-1.08). The 50-54 group had higher BF% than the 30-34 group (p = 0.010; d = 0.77). The 55+ group had a greater WHR, lower grip strength, and completed fewer crunches and push-ups than most younger groups (p ≤ 0.05; d = 0.60-1.32). The 50-54 and 55+ groups had a lower 1RM leg press and V̇o2max compared with the younger groups (p ≤ 0.009; d = 0.77-1.79). The program appeared generally effective, with limited differences in groups below 49 years of age. Greater disparities in fat mass and fitness tended to occur in the older groups (50-54, 55+ groups). The data highlighted that older firefighters were participating in the optional program, which could lead to better health outcomes.

Extending Research on Law Enforcement Academy Graduation and Fitness: A Research Note on Receiver Operating Characteristic Curves.

ABSTRACT: 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 (p < 0.001). 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.

Between-Sex Differences in the Work Sample Test Battery Performed by Law Enforcement Recruits: Implications for Training and Potential Job Performance.

ABSTRACT: 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 36(5): 1310-1317, 2022-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.

Relationship Between the 20-m Multistage Fitness Test and 2.4-km Run in Law Enforcement Recruits.

ABSTRACT: Lockie, RG, Dawes, JJ, Moreno, MR, Cesario, KA, Balfany, K, Stierli, M, Dulla, JM, and Orr, RM. Relationship between the 20-m multistage fitness test and 2.4-km run in law enforcement recruits. J Strength Cond Res 35(10): 2756-2761, 2021-In the United States, the 2.4-km run is arguably the most common law enforcement aerobic assessment. Potential limitations are that recruits use an internal pacing strategy, the test requires fewer direction changes, and less-fit recruits run for longer. The 20-m multistage fitness test (20MSFT) is commonly used internationally to assess aerobic fitness in law enforcement recruits and provides an external pacing strategy. This study documented sex differences between the 2.4-km run and 20MSFT in law enforcement recruits, and between-test relationships. Retrospective analysis on 8 academy classes (463 men and 87 women) from 1 agency was conducted. The 20MSFT was completed before academy and the 2.4-km run in the first week. Between-sex comparisons in the 2.4-km run and 20MSFT were conducted with independent-samples t-tests and effect sizes. Estimated V̇o2max from the tests was compared with paired-samples t-tests. Correlations and linear regression calculated 2.4-km run and 20MSFT relationships. There were significant between-sex differences for the 2.4-km run and 20MSFT (p < 0.01), with moderate (d = 0.9) and small (d = 0.4) effects, respectively. Estimated 2.4-km run V̇o2max was greater than that from the 20MSFT (p < 0.01). The 2.4-km run had significant relationships with the 20MSFT (r = -0.6), although the regression equations were low (r2 = 0.30-0.37). Between-sex differences in the 20MSFT seemed less than for those in the 2.4-km run. Nonetheless, even with significant relationships between the tests, the 20MSFT induces a higher running intensity and direction changes. This may limit transferability with the 2.4-km run in law enforcement recruits.

Skeletal Muscle Mass and Fat Mass Relationships With Physical Fitness Test Performance in Law Enforcement Recruits Before Academy.

ABSTRACT: 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.

Effects of Sex and Age on Physical Testing Performance for Law Enforcement Agency Candidates: Implications for Academy Training.

ABSTRACT: 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.

Recruit Fitness Standards From a Large Law Enforcement Agency: Between-Class Comparisons, Percentile Rankings, and Implications for Physical 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.

Physical Fitness, Sex Considerations, and Academy Graduation for Law Enforcement Recruits.

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.

2.4-km Run and 20-m Multistage Fitness Test Relationships in Law Enforcement Recruits After Academy Training.

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.

Waist Circumference and Waist-to-Hip Ratio in Law Enforcement Agency Recruits: Relationship to Performance in Physical Fitness Tests.

Lockie, RG, Ruvalcaba, TR, Stierli, M, Dulla, JM, Dawes, JJ, and Orr, RM. Waist circumference and waist-to-hip ratio in law enforcement agency recruits: relationship to performance in physical fitness tests. J Strength Cond Res 34(6): 1666-1675, 2020-Law enforcement agencies (LEAs) use tests to assess recruit physical fitness. Body fat can influence test performance but is difficult to measure during academy because of time, equipment constraints, and instructor knowledge. This study examined relationships between waist circumference (WC) and waist-to-hip ratio (WHR), practical measures of fat distribution, and fitness test performance. Retrospective analysis of 267 LEA recruits (age: ∼28 years; height: ∼1.73 m; and body mass: ∼80 kg; 219 males and 48 females) was conducted. The tests included: WC and WHR; grip strength; push-ups, sit-ups, and arm ergometer revolutions in 60 seconds; vertical jump (VJ); medicine ball throw; 75-yd pursuit run (75PR); and multistage fitness test (MSFT) shuttles. Partial correlations, controlling for sex, calculated relationships between WC, WHR, and the fitness tests. Recruits were split into quartile groups (based on the sample size) for WC and WHR (group 1 had the lowest WC and WHR; and group 4 the highest). A 1-way multivariate analysis of variance, with sex as a covariate and Bonferroni post hoc, compared between-group test performance. A greater WC related to lesser push-up, sit-up, VJ, 75PR, and MSFT performance (p ≤ 0.024). When recruits were split into WC groups, group 4 had lesser performance in push-ups, sit-ups, VJ, and the 75PR compared with all groups (p ≤ 0.038). When split into WHR groups, group 4 performed less push-ups than group 1, less MSFT shuttles than group 3, and had a lower VJ compared with all groups (p ≤ 0.042). Recruits with a greater WC tended to have poorer fitness test performance.

Physical Characteristics by Sex and Age for Custody Assistants From a Law Enforcement Agency.

Lockie, RG, Orr, RM, Stierli, M, Cesario, KA, Moreno, MR, Bloodgood, AM, Dulla, JM, and Dawes, JJ. The physical characteristics by sex and age for custody assistants from a law enforcement agency. J Strength Cond Res 33(8): 2223-2232, 2019-Custody assistants (CAs) are a position within a law enforcement agency who are responsible for assisting officers with maintaining security in correctional facilities. Unlike other positions, CAs may not be required to complete physical testing before being hired. This lack of testing could influence the characteristics of CAs who attend academy training. Therefore, retrospective analysis of performance test data for 108 officers (69 men and 39 women) was conducted. The tests included: grip strength for both hands; number of push-ups and sit-ups in 60 seconds; 201-m (220 yard) and 2.4-km runs; and maximal aerobic capacity (VO2max) estimated from the 2.4-km run. Data were stratified by sex and age (≤24 years, 25-29 years, 30-34 years, and ≥35 years). Independent samples t tests (p ≤ 0.05) calculated differences between men and women. To compare age groups, a 1-way analysis of variance with Bonferroni post hoc was used (p ≤ 0.05). Men scored significantly higher than women in hand grip, push-ups, and sit-ups, were faster over the 201-m and 2.4-km runs, and had a higher Vo2max (p ≤ 0.001-0.024). There were no significant differences in performance tests across the age groups for either men or women. To better tolerate the rigors of physical training, female CAs should attempt to improve their fitness before the start of academy training because they often need to complete the same tasks as the male CAs. Age did not seem to influence the physical characteristics of CAs, although all CAs should attempt to develop the fitness qualities needed for their occupation.

Analysis of the Effects of Sex and Age on Upper- and Lower-Body Power for Law Enforcement Agency Recruits Before Academy Training.

Lockie, RG, Dawes, JJ, Orr, RM, Stierli, M, Dulla, JM, and Orjalo, AJ. Analysis of the effects of sex and age on upper- and lower-body power for law enforcement agency recruits before academy training. J Strength Cond Res 32(7): 1968-1974, 2018-Power is an important characteristic for law enforcement officers. Tasks such as carrying or dragging a civilian to safety, jumping or vaulting, and suspect restraint and pursuit require power to be effective. Certain recruits may be lacking in these qualities even if they have been accepted to a law enforcement agency (LEA). This study investigated upper- and lower-body power in male and female LEA recruits, and recruits of different ages, before academy training. Retrospective analysis of recruit data from one LEA was conducted. The measurements were: vertical jump (VJ) height; peak anaerobic power calculated by the Sayers equation; power-to-body mass ratio (P:BM); seated medicine ball throw (MBT) distance; and MBT distance relative to body mass. Independent-sample t-tests were used to compare the sexes, whereas a 1-way analysis of variance with Bonferroni post hoc compared the pooled data for recruits across different age groups (20-24; 25-29; 30-34; and 35+ years). The male recruits demonstrated superior performance across all power tests compared with the female recruits (p < 0.001). Regarding age, the 35+ year group performed less than optimally in the VJ and P:BM compared with the 20-24 and 24-29 years groups, and in the relative MBT compared with the 20-24 and 30-34 years groups (p = 0.003-0.037). Despite being accepted to a LEA, female recruits and recruits aged 35+ years of age may be lacking in upper- and lower-body power. Female and older recruits should participate in strength and power training before academy attendance to maintain or enhance these qualities.

Shoulder Taps: Relationships Between a New Movement Screening Assessment with Body Composition and Physical Fitness in Law Enforcement Recruits.

The overhead squat, as part of the Functional Movement Screen (FMS), can analyze total- and lower-body mechanics. Shoulder taps, which incorporates a push-up position and challenges shoulder, trunk, and hip stability, may identify movement deficiencies indicated by multiple FMS actions which could be useful for law enforcement recruits. This study determined overhead squat and shoulder taps relationships, associations between these screens with body composition and fitness, and differences in body composition and fitness according to overhead squat/shoulder taps scores in recruits by sex. Retrospective analysis was conducted on 202 recruit datasets (158 males, 44 females), which included: overhead squat and shoulder taps scores; age, height, and body mass; skeletal muscle (SMM%) and body fat mass (BFM%) percentage; waist-to-hip ratio; grip strength; 60-s push-ups and sit-ups; 75-yard pursuit run; vertical jump; medicine ball throw; and multistage fitness test (MSFT). Spearman's correlations (p<0.05) determined relationships between the overhead squat and shoulder taps, and between the screens and other variables. Kruskall-Wallis H tests compared the variables when recruits were split into groups based on overhead squat/shoulder taps scores. A significant correlation was found between the screens for male (ρ=0.231) but not female (ρ=0.258) recruits. Overhead squat score had a moderate relationship with BFM% in females (ρ=-0.312). Shoulder taps had a small relationship with SMM% in males (ρ=0.163). There were no differences in body composition and fitness when recruits were split based on screen scores (p=0.086-0.994). While morphology may influence movement screen performance, the screens had minimal capacity for associating movement deficiencies to fitness.

Law enforcement recruit fitness: Changes across the fitness spectrum.

BACKGROUND: Law enforcement is a profession of sedentary physical activity interspersed with physically demanding activity that requires high levels of fitness. It is imperative that agencies training law enforcement recruits maximise their fitness during their time at the academy. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to investigate changes in physical fitness during academy training. METHODS: Retrospective data for 10 academy recruit classes, totalling 715 participants, were collected from a US law enforcement agency. The change in performance on two standardised tests were used as outcome measures. Comparisons were made between percentiles utilising one-way ANOVA and a linear mixed model (LMM). RESULTS: Overall, higher percentiles were found to have smaller improvements in physical fitness than lower percentiles. The results of the LMM support this supposition, showing that lower physical fitness scores resulted in greater improvements in a generalised fitness assessment (value = -0.45, standard error 0.02, p <  0.001) and an occupational assessment (value = -0.49, standard error = 0.02, p <  0.001). CONCLUSION: The results of this study suggest that recruits with lower physical fitness will see greater improvements during academy training. This could be due to a ceiling effect for the more fit but may also be due to recruits of higher physical fitness being under trained during academy. Utilising ability-based training and prescribing an appropriate workload to recruits of higher fitness may improve overall recruit fitness upon graduation.

The Bigger They Are: Relationships between Body Height and Mass with the Body Drag Task in Law Enforcement Recruits.

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.

Profiling the injuries of law enforcement recruits during academy training: a retrospective cohort study.

BACKGROUND: Injuries within law enforcement are a significant issue as they increase organisational costs and workforce strain. As one of the biggest risk factors of future injury is previous injury, minimising injuries suffered during academy has multiple beneficial and long-term effects, including a healthier and fitter police force. The purpose of this study was to profile the injuries sustained at a law enforcement academy to inform future injury mitigation strategies. METHODS: Injury data were provided retrospectively (from May 2012 to September 2019) from the official insurance records of a law enforcement academy and included nature, location, and activity performed at time of injury. A total of 4340 (3288 males, 938 females, 114 sex not stated) recruits participated in academy training during this period. Inclusion criteria for the data were (a) injury record related to a recruit, and (b) the recruit was injured during academy training., with injury defined as tissue damage caused by acute or repetitive trauma, inclusive of musculoskeletal, neural, and/or integumentary systems but excluding general medical conditions such as cardiac (e.g. heart attacks) or respiratory (asthma) that was subsequently reported for worker's compensation. Injury incidence rates and proportions were calculated and a Spearman's correlation analysis was conducted between injury rates over successive classes. RESULTS: An injury incidence rate of 368.63 injuries per 1000 recruits per year was calculated in this population, with a moderate correlation coefficient (rs = 0.60) of increasing injury rates over chronologically occurring classes. Females also had higher injury rates than male recruits, even across various fitness levels. Trauma to joints and ligaments (49.30%) was the most common injury, and the knee the most common location (23.17%) of injury. Physical training (56.10%) was the most common activity being performed at the time of injury. CONCLUSIONS: This research demonstrates a large number of lower limb, musculoskeletal injuries that often occur during physical training. Further research is needed to assess suitable injury mitigation programs.

Body Composition and Fitness Characteristics of Firefighters Participating in a Health and Wellness Program: Relationships and Descriptive Data.

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.

A Preliminary Comparison of Firefighter Candidates' Biddle Physical Ability Test Performance and Success Based on Training Class Participation.

The Biddle Physical Ability Test (BPAT) was developed to identify candidates who possess the physical ability to become structural firefighters. The test must be completed in ≤ 9:34 min:s before a candidate is admitted to an academy. Some community colleges offer semester-long training classes for candidates. This study analyzed whether candidates who completed a training class could perform the BPAT more effectively. Retrospective analysis of 30 males and 2 females who attempted the BPAT was conducted. BPAT tasks were: dry and charged hose drag; halyard raise, roof walk, and attic crawl; roof ventilation and victim removal; ladder removal and carry; stair climb with hose bundle; crawling search and tower exit; stair climb with air bottles; hose hoist; and return to ground floor with air bottles. Independent samples t-tests or Mann-Whitney U tests (p < 0.05) and effect sizes calculated BPAT time differences between candidates who completed a training class or not. Twenty-nine candidates passed the BPAT; 6 completed a training class. The 3 candidates (2 males, 1 female) who failed did not complete a class. There were no significant between-group differences in BPAT times (p = 0.054-0.829). There were moderate effects for faster roof ventilation and victim removal, ladder removal and carry, and hose hoist times for candidates who attended a class (d = 0.74-0.95). While training classes may not be necessary for all candidates, physically demanding BPAT tasks were finished faster by candidates who completed a class. For candidates who find the BPAT physicality difficult, participation in a task-specific fitness and skills class may prove beneficial.

Profiling the Typical Training Load of a Law Enforcement Recruit Class.

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.