1. Is this the same as the police fitness test?
This is an independent simulator that replicates the timing and pacing of the Job Related Fitness Test (JRFT). It is a training tool, not an official certification. Standards can vary by force.
Interactive Multi-Stage Fitness Tool
15m Bleep Test
Simulator
Practise the real police fitness pacing. See exactly how fast each shuttle is, and train your turns before test day.
Independent simulator for UK police candidates. Not affiliated with any force. Standards and retake rules vary by force.
Quick Answer
“The police fitness test for most Home Office forces uses the 15m bleep test. The entry standard is typically Level 5.4, which takes about 3 minutes 35 seconds and covers roughly 525 metres, finishing at around 10 km/h. This simulator lets you practise the pacing and turns before test day.”
Interactive Pacer Tool
Use speakers or headphones for audio cues. Interact to start.
Entry Standard15m Shuttle Track
1.1
Level / ShuttleBelow Standard
Line ATURNING MOMENTLine B
Speed8 km/h
Time0:00
Dist0 m
FeelingBrisk Walk
Warning Sys
Level 5.4 Breakdown
Total Time ~3m 35s
Total Distance 525m
Track Length 15m
Finish Speed 10 km/h
Shuttles 35 Total
Recommended Buffer
Aim for Level 6.1 in training to account for nerves and floor grip.
What This Tool Does
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Real 15m Timing
Shows the real timing for 15m shuttles, which have higher 'stop-start' demands than school-based 20m tests.
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Practise Turns & Pacing
Helps you internalize the rhythm of the bleep so you don't over-sprint in the early levels.
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100% Client-Side
No data stored, no accounts needed. Works entirely in your browser with generated audio beeps.
NB: This tool is for training simulation only. It does not constitute medical or recruitment advice. Consult a doctor before starting a new exercise regime.
How To Use This On Test Day
Preparation is 50% physical and 50% technical. Use these tactical tips to ensure your simulator efforts translate to a pass.
Elite Shoe Choice
Avoid running shoes with thick, soft 'foam' soles designed for roads. You need lateral stability for the turns. Court shoes (squash or basketball) or training shoes with a flatter sole provide better grip on sports hall floors.
The Pivot Secret
Don't overstep the line. Touch it with the ball of your foot and pivot 180 degrees immediately. Taking three steps to turn is a 'banana turn' and adds nearly 70m of extra distance during the test.
Master the Rhythm
In the first 3 levels, it's a brisk walk. If you reach the line 5 seconds early, you're sprinting too hard and fatiguing your heart rate. Aim to touch the line exactly with the bleep.
Bleep Test
FAQs
2. What is Level 5.4 on the 15m bleep test?
It is the national entry standard for Home Office forces. You must complete Level 1, 2, 3, 4 and the first four shuttles of Level 5 on a 15m track.
3. How long does Level 5.4 take?
The test takes approximately 3 minutes and 35 seconds to reach the 5.4 mark. It is a test of aerobic threshold, not endurance.
4. How far is Level 5.4?
Total distance covered is 525 metres. Because of the frequent turns (every 15m), this feels significantly harder than running 525m in a straight line.
5. What speed is Level 5.4?
You finish Level 5.4 at a speed of 10 km/h (roughly 6.2 mph). The levels increase in speed roughly every minute.
6. Is Level 5.4 the same for men and women?
Yes. The College of Policing maintains a single national standard for all candidates regardless of gender or age, based on minimum operational requirements.
7. Can I practise using this tool instead of an app?
Yes, this web tool is designed to work on mobile browsers. Simply set up a 15m track in a park or gym and use your phone speakers for the beeps.
8. Is the police test 15m or 20m?
National standards specify 15m for Home Office forces. Some commercial tests use 20m—be careful, as 20m timing is completely different.
9. Why does 15m feel harder than 20m?
Turn frequency. Over the same distance, you perform more 180-degree pivots on a 15m track, which fatigues the legs far faster than linear running.
10. What happens if I miss the line?
If you miss the line before the beep, you will typically receive a verbal warning. You must catch up on the next shuttle or you will be asked to stop.
11. Do I get warnings in the real test?
Typically, yes. Most forces allow one 'catch-up' warning. A second consecutive failure to touch the line results in a DNM (Did Not Meet) grade.
12. How many retakes do you usually get if you fail?
Most forces allow three attempts in total, usually spaced 6 weeks apart to allow for fitness improvements.
13. Do forces still use push/pull strength tests?
Most Home Office forces have phased out the push/pull static strength test for initial entry, focusing purely on the bleep test.
14. What level do specialist roles require?
ARV Firearms requires 9.4. Dog Handling requires 5.7. PSU Riot Training requires 6.3. These roles have much higher aerobic demands.
15. What should I aim for in practice?
Aim for Level 6.1. This provides a 'safety margin' that ensures you can pass the 5.4 even if you are nervous or tired on the day.
Want a Full Plan,
Not Guesswork?
Use the Fitness Standards Checker to estimate your current bleep level from your 5k time and basic strength, then follow the 4–6 week plan.