Abstract
Objective:
This observational study evaluated the effectiveness of a standardized, evidence-based police academy physical training (PT) program in reducing the incidence of musculoskeletal injury (MSKI) and improving fitness among law enforcement cadets.
Methods:
Using a university-supported train-the-trainer model, a 12-week PT program was implemented across 10 training centers in the Southeastern U.S., with 937 cadets completing pre- and post-program fitness assessments and self-reported injury surveys.
Results:
Self-reported injuries ranged from 10-20%, with serious injuries falling from 6.18% to 3.65%, lowering total injury rates to < 2.5%, well below national averages. Significant improvements were observed in BMI (−0.30 kg/m²), grip strength (+7.72 lbs), vertical jump (+1.11 in), pushups (+6.20), plank time (+28.74s), and agility (−0.87s) with all p-values <. 001.
Conclusions:
Evidence-based, progressive PT programs can reduce MSKI risk and enhance occupational fitness and long-term wellness among police recruits.
This observational study evaluated the effectiveness of a standardized, evidence-based police academy physical training (PT) program in reducing the incidence of musculoskeletal injury (MSKI) and improving fitness among law enforcement cadets.
Methods:
Using a university-supported train-the-trainer model, a 12-week PT program was implemented across 10 training centers in the Southeastern U.S., with 937 cadets completing pre- and post-program fitness assessments and self-reported injury surveys.
Results:
Self-reported injuries ranged from 10-20%, with serious injuries falling from 6.18% to 3.65%, lowering total injury rates to < 2.5%, well below national averages. Significant improvements were observed in BMI (−0.30 kg/m²), grip strength (+7.72 lbs), vertical jump (+1.11 in), pushups (+6.20), plank time (+28.74s), and agility (−0.87s) with all p-values <. 001.
Conclusions:
Evidence-based, progressive PT programs can reduce MSKI risk and enhance occupational fitness and long-term wellness among police recruits.
| Original language | Undefined/Unknown |
|---|---|
| Journal | Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine |
| Volume | Publish Ahead of Print |
| DOIs | |
| State | Published - Mar 9 2026 |
Scopus Subject Areas
- Public Health, Environmental and Occupational Health
Keywords
- Law Enforcement Wellness
- Occupational Fitness
- Physical Training
- Train-the-Trainer Model
- and Injury Reduction
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