Longitudinal Changes in the Physical Activity Patterns of Police Officers

Abstract

The main objective of this study is to compare the frequency of physical activity and the use of training goals and training programmes among 139 police students at the end of their police studies and after three years' work as police officers. The priority level of different forms of training is also compared among the same police officers during the same period. Participants answered two surveys about their activity level and the priority level of different forms of training. The results show that their physical activity levels and the use of training programmes and training goals dropped after three years' work as police officers. During this period, the priority level increased for endurance, power and sprint training, but decreased for maximum strength training and bodybuilding. It is suggested that police chiefs in police districts make it easier for officers to engage in physical activity during work hours, according to the instructions of the National Police Directorate. Conducting mandatory physical fitness testing annually at police stations may also increase officers' motivation to engage in physical training. A longitudinal study on the priority of physical training is needed to determine whether this negative trend continues. Future studies should also investigate the ways in which to increase physical activity among police officers.