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How to Prepare for Police Academy Physical Fitness Assessments

Jan 26, 2025

5 Steps to Excel in Police Academy Physical Fitness Assessments

Physical fitness assessments are a critical part of police academy training, testing your strength, stamina, and agility. Success in these evaluations proves you’re ready for the physical demands of law enforcement. Here’s how to prepare and excel.

1. Understand the Assessment Criteria

Each academy has specific fitness requirements, such as timed runs, push-ups, sit-ups, or obstacle courses. Knowing these standards helps you train effectively.

Tip: Contact your academy for the specific benchmarks and tailor your training plan to exceed them.

2. Focus on Cardiovascular Endurance

Many assessments include running or sprinting, making cardiovascular fitness essential. Building endurance ensures you can maintain a strong pace during evaluations.

Tip: Incorporate interval training with alternating sprints and jogging to build stamina and speed.

3. Build Functional Strength

Tasks like weight dragging, wall climbing, or push-ups require functional strength. Preparing your body for these movements ensures confidence and control on test day.

Tip: Add exercises like planks, pull-ups, and farmer’s carries to mimic the physical challenges you’ll face.

4. Practice Specific Test Components

Rehearsing the exact exercises in the assessment improves your performance and builds familiarity with the tasks.

Tip: Set up mock evaluations for running, sit-ups, and other components to gauge your progress.

5. Prioritize Nutrition and Recovery

Proper nutrition and recovery are crucial for sustained energy and performance. Fueling your body with healthy foods and getting adequate rest enhances your results.

Tip: Focus on lean proteins, complex carbohydrates, and hydration while aiming for 7–8 hours of sleep per night.


Excelling in physical fitness assessments requires preparation, consistency, and a focus on recovery. By following these strategies, you’ll be ready to meet and exceed academy standards.

For more insights on preparing for the police academy, visit www.armoganct.com.

Best,
Barbara
Armogan Training Team

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