Utah Department of Public Safety

Employment - Physical Assessment Test

Becoming a Trooper

Each candidate must complete the following:

Vertical Jump

Individual stands with feet planted about shoulder width apart and reaches up as high as possible. A mark is measured where the finger tips touch. This is the standard reach.

Individual jumps and reaches as high as possible and hits the measuring tabs. The highest tab that is touched determines the results. Prior to the jump, one foot must remain stationary on the floor.

The score is the distance between the standard reach and the jump mark.

Up to three attempts are allowed to reach the minimum of 14 inches.

Standard: 14 inches (Verticle Jump)

MUSCULAR ENDURANCE

The individual lies on the back with the knees flexed at a right angle. A partner kneels at the subject's feet and presses down on the subject's insteps to keep the heels in contact with the floor. The hands must remain in contact with the head. When ready, the signal "go"; is given and the subject sits up to touch the knees with the elbows breaking the vertical plane. Without pause, the subject returns to the starting position just long enough for the shoulders to touch the mat and immediately sits up again. The score is the number of sit-ups that can be completed in one minute.

Standard: 26 (SIT-UPS)

STRENGTH TEST

The individual assumes a front-leaning position with the hands placed where they are most comfortable. The back, buttocks and legs must be straight from head to heels. Begin the push-up by bending the elbows and lowering the entire body until the tops of the upper arms, shoulders and lower back are aligned and parallel to the floor. Return to the starting position by locking the elbows. During the test the subject cannot rest at any time. If the subject does not keep the body straight or lock the elbows completely, that repetition does not count. There is no time limit, but the test will end once the individual stops or pauses.

Standard: 18 (PUSH-UPS)

CARDIOVASCULAR ENDURANCE

The test involves measuring the time spent in running 1.5 miles. The distance covered in a specific amount of time is then used to determine the fitness category of the individual. This test requires a nearly exhaustive effort. It is assumed that the individual has had the proper medical examination and has been cleared for an exercise program.

On the day of testing, it is recommended that the participant should abstain from smoking or eating for a minimum of two hours preceding the test. It is advisable to allow adequate time prior to the test for stretching and warm-up exercises. An important consideration at the end of the run is the "cool down" period. The participants should be cautioned about standing around immediately after the run, to prevent pooling of the blood in the lower extremities, which reduces the return of the blood to the heart. An additional walk for at least five minutes after the test should be sufficient for the cool down period.