POWER Testing

Testing Information

• How Will Physical Fitness Be Measured?

  The POWER test consists of four basic tests. Each test is a scientifically valid test. It is recommended that five minutes of static stretching, using techniques approved by the Board, be completed prior to each test. A five minute rest is recommended between each test with a fifteen minute rest before the 1.5 mile run. The tests will be given in the following sequence with a rest period between each test.

  1. Sit and Reach Test This is a measure of the flexibility of the lower back and upper leg area. It is an important area for performing police tasks involving range of motion and is also important in minimizing lower back problems. The test involves stretching out to touch the toes or beyond with extended arms from the sitting position. The score is in the inches reached on a sit and reach box.
  2. 1 Minute Sit-Up Test This is a measure of the muscular endurance of the abdominal muscles. It is an important area for performing police tasks that may involve the use of force and is also an important area for maintaining good posture and minimizing lower back problems. The score is in the number of bent leg sit-ups performed in one minute.
  3. 1 Repetition Maximum Bench Press This is a maximum weight pushed from the bench press position and measures the amount of force the upper body can generate. It is an important area for performing police tasks requiring upper body strength. The score is a ratio of weight pushed divided by body weight.
  4. 1.5 Mile Run This is a timed run to measure the heart and vascular system’s capability to transport oxygen. It is an important area for performing police tasks involving stamina and endurance and to minimize the risk of cardiovascular problems. The score is in minutes and seconds.

  
  What Are the Standards?

  • The actual performance requirement for each test is based upon norms for a national population sample.
  • The applicant must pass every test.
  • The required performance to pass each test is based upon age (decade) and sex. While the absolute performance is different for the eight categories, the relative level of effort is identical for each age and sex group. All recruits are being required to meet the same percentile range in terms of their respective age/sex group. The performance requirement is that level of physical performance that approximates the 40th percentile for each age and sex group.

   

  POWER Chart

  TEST	MALE AGE Range				FEMALE AGE Range
  	20-29	30-39	40-49	50-59	20-29	30-39	40-49	50-59
  Sit & Reach	16.0	15.0	13.8	12.8	18.8	17.8	16.8	16.3
  1 Minute Sit Up	37	34	28	23	31	24	19	13
  Maximum Bench Press Ratio	.98	.87	.79	.70	.58	.52	.49	.43
  1.5 Mile Run	13.46	14.31	15.24	16.21	16.21	16.52	17.53	18.44

• Additional Information

  • Applicants must be at least 20 years of age at time of scheduled power test and must provide government issued Driver’s License or State ID card.
  • The last day an applicant can register is one day prior to test date.
  • $45.00 for one attempt at the POWER test.
  • $20.00 for replacement or lost POWER card.
  • Refunds will not be given after payment is received by JJC.
  • Failure to attend a scheduled Power test will result in forfeiture of all fees paid.
  • A candidate may reschedule if requested at least 3 days in advance of the scheduled Power test.
  • All fees will be forfeited if POWER test is not completed within 12 months of submission of payment.
  • All participants of the Power test must wear appropriate exercise attire for indoor and outdoor events.
  • Gym shoes and socks are required. No street shoes or boots will be allowed in areas of the fitness center.
  • Test will be conducted rain or shine. Only in the case of extreme weather will a test be delayed or cancelled.
  • Cancellation of a test will be made at JJC’s discretion.
  • Bring a bottle of water.