PHYSICAL FITNESS ASSESSMENT
The Physical Fitness test is comprised of four events. Each event is briefly described below. The exercises measure muscular strength, cardiovascular endurance, and anaerobic power. Applicants should begin preparing for this section of the test as soon as possible.
STATION 1: ONE MINUTE SIT-UP TEST
This test measures muscular endurance of the abdominal muscles. The test involves the performance of as many bent leg sit-ups as an applicants can properly complete in a one-minute period. Fingers MUST BE interlaced and applicants MUST place their hands behind their head. Elbows must touch the knees in the up position and the shoulder blades must touch the floor in the down position.
STATION 2: 300 METER RUN TEST
This test measures anaerobic power. Prior to the test, you should warm-up per your normal training regimen. To begin the test you will gather at the starting line. At the signal, begin to run as fast as possible until you reach the finish line. During the test, pacing devices, external assistance, or devices that impair individuals from hearing the instructions will be prohibited. As you cross the finish line, your time will be recorded in minutes and seconds.
STATION 3: ONE MINUTE PUSH-UP TEST
This test measures muscular endurance of the chest, upper arms and shoulder muscles (upper body dynamic strength). The test involves the performance of as many push-ups as an applicant can properly complete in a one-minute period. Applicants begin the event in the down position with hands placed next to the shoulders. Arms must be at soft extension in the up position and the chest, stomach and thighs must be off the floor in the down position. Applicants may rest only in the up position.
STATION 4: 1.5 MILE RUN TEST
This is a timed run to measure the heart and vascular system’s capability to transport oxygen (cardiovascular endurance). The test involves the timed completion of a 1.5 mile run. Applicants are permitted to run, jog and/or walk to complete the 1.5 mile distance. (It should be noted, however, that this event cannot be passed if applicants walk all or most of the distance.) The score is the number of minutes and seconds needed to complete the 1.5-mile run.
PHYSICAL FITNESS ASSESSMENT STANDARDS
The following standards must be met in order to pass the Physical Fitness test. Performance scores are based on pass or fail. An applicant must pass each station in order to proceed to the next station in the test. Applicants are required to pass ALL FOUR stations. (Applicants will only be tested once; re-testing will not be permitted.)
The push-ups and sit-ups will be conducted indoors; the run will be conducted outside. Come dressed for the physical fitness test and wear appropriate running or training shoes. Although it is important to eat and drink water prior to the test, you should not eat a heavy meal or smoke within 2–3 hours of the start of the test.
Clothing other than what you will be wearing during the exercises should be left in your car. Bring only what can fit in your pocket (scheduling letter, photo identification and car key). Leave extra keys, wallets, etc, at home or in your car. We are not responsible for any misplaced, lost, stolen or damaged property during the test. Cellular telephones, and other electronic and recording devices will not be permitted at the test site.
If you have any concern about your health and/or ability to take this test, it is strongly recommended that you consult with a physician. For your safety, if you are pregnant, or wearing a brace, a cast or sling or obviously injured in any way, you will not be permitted to participate in the Physical Fitness test without a signed medical authorization from a physician. This authorization must state that you aware of the events in the Physical Fitness test and that it is safe for you to participate in the test. You must bring this medical authorization with you at the time of your scheduled test appointment.
CHIP CARD
The Connecticut State Police accepts CHIP cards. A CHIP card can be obtained at the candidate's own expense, and submitted via email to csp.recruitment@ct.gov upon request. A CHIP card is only valid for six (6) months; therefore candidates applying only to the Connecticut State Police should wait until application opening dates are announced before obtaining a CHIP card.
How to use the CHIP test when applying to a police department:
Passing the Physical Ability Assessment is a prerequisite for candidacy with nearly 100 police departments. The CHIP Card is accepted throughout Connecticut but it can be accepted by any local, state of federal public safety agency interested in creating a more efficient and streamlined hiring process. If you're applying to a department outside of Connecticut ask the agency if they will accept your CHIP results. CHIP simplifies the process by enabling police applicants to:
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Take one assessment
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Pay one fee
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Use test results for multiple police departments
Once a candidate passes a CHIP Physical Ability Assessment, he or she receives certified results - CHIP Card that is valid for six months and is accepted by all CHIP participating departments.