Will You Pass The
Police Fitness Test?

The College of Policing pass mark for police officers is Level 5.4 on a 15-metre multi-stage bleep test. This means 35 shuttles of 15 metres (525 metres), which takes about 3 minutes and 35 seconds.

The speed starts at about 7.9 km/h and rises to about 9.9 km/h during Level 5. It is a moderate pace for many people, but the turns make it different from steady running.

Not necessarily. Level 5.4 is a moderate aerobic standard and does not need marathon-runner stamina, but we cannot say how you will do. Being able to jog continuously for 10 minutes is a reasonable starting point for many people.

Commonly cited issues are starting too fast, running in wide curves or tiring from the turns. joiningthepolice.co.uk recommends starting to train up to six weeks before the test.

Carrying extra weight increases the eccentric load (braking force) on your knees and ankles when turning. To prepare safely without causing shin splints or joint pain, focus on low-impact cardio (like cycling or swimming) to build your aerobic base first.

Some people add turn practice on a flat, non-slip surface gradually. See a GP or physio if you have knee pain.

Asthma does not automatically stop you joining the police, according to joiningthepolice.co.uk. Speak to your GP or your force's occupational health team about training, and ask your force how inhalers are handled on the day.

Declare any condition on your health questionnaire and take medical advice before training hard.

The College of Policing standard uses a 15-metre shuttle distance, while many school and other tests use 20 metres. On a 15-metre test you turn more often at a given speed.

The timings per level differ, so a 20-metre audio track will not match the police test. Practise with a 15-metre recording or simulator instead.

The College of Policing standard is Level 5.4 for officers who undertake Personal Safety Training, and its guidance says it is inappropriate and illegal for forces to make concessions in the standard for age or gender. Some specialist roles have higher recommended levels (PSU 6.3, AFO 7.6, ARV 9.4). Serving officers are covered by an annual retesting regime.

Forces can offer support instead, such as women-only sessions, mentoring and help with training. Efficient turning helps everyone conserve energy.

Nerves are common. The sound of the bleep can raise your heart rate before you start.

One approach is to get used to the bleep sound by practising with a recording in a low-pressure setting, and to focus on slow, steady breathing rather than listening anxiously for the beep.

We are not aware of published data on why people fail. Commonly cited issues are running ahead of the bleeps in the early levels, wide turns that add distance, and nerves affecting breathing. Fixing them may help, but we cannot say by how much.