Thinking about joining the police but worried about the fitness test? You’re not alone. It’s one of the most common concerns we hear from people considering a career in policing. We’re here to walk you through what to expect and explain why it’s more achievable than you might think.
Why is there a police fitness test?
Choosing a career in policing means being ready for anything both physically and mentally. No two days are the same, and whilst that’s part of the thrill of the role, it’s also the reason you must be prepared for anything. Which is why the police fitness test is essential within the application process, officers can carry out operational duties and keep the public safe.
You don’t need to be an athlete
You will be pleased to learn that the test doesn’t require you to be a long-term gym member or an athlete, it’s a simple shuttle run many of us remember from school as the bleep test.
Previous candidates shared their experience of the test:
“Doing the bleep test gives you that bit of boost of confidence to know that you have got a bit of basic fitness that you can rely on.”
“I don’t think the bleep test is a precludement, in fact I think it’s actually a drive, because if you can prove you can do that what else are you capable of.”
Many people imagine a police fitness test like a scene from a film, with obstacle courses, strength tests and many other fitness tests. This isn’t the case, and there’s no strength test or obstacle course involved. Whilst having a level of fitness is required, it’s designed to ensure that people from all backgrounds and ages have the ability to achieve the minimum requirement.
We spoke to Sergeant Metcalfe, who trains new police recruits for some words of wisdom to those who are feeling nervous about taking the test.
“One of the biggest barriers for applicants is often their own self-doubt. My advice is simple: prepare, stay positive and trust yourself. Treat the fitness test like you would any other assessment, put the work in beforehand, and you’ll give yourself the best possible chance of success.”
How far will you run?
To pass the test, you’ll need to pass level 5.4. , which equals a run of around 525 metres. For comparison it’s like running up and down St. James Park football pitch 5 times in 3 and a half minutes. To make the test as fair as possible, you will get two chances to pass this test when applying to join the police. In the last 12 months, around 89% of candidates passed the police fitness test and went onto begin their officer training.
Run and repeat
Once you’ve joined the force, you’ll complete the bleep test each year as part of maintaining operational fitness. For most officers, the required standard remains level 5.4. As your career develops you may choose to explore other roles in policing beyond 999 Response. We have opportunities to apply to join roads policing, firearms or even our mounted unit. Each of them has a different level to hit on the bleep test, which is more challenging than the standard entry requirements due to the physical intensity of the roles.
Ready to take the first step?
The police fitness test is an important part of becoming a police officer, and it shouldn’t put you off applying. Understanding what’s involved, preparing in advance and building your confidence can make the experience much more manageable.
