The Criminal Justice Institute has adopted single norm testing of academy applicants. This physical testing has been validated by FDLE and the Region XII Training Advisory Board.
A single norm standard is defined as follows; all persons taking the Physical Agility Test (PAT) must meet the same standards regardless of gender or age. These standards require the same level of performance regardless of age and gender (same job = same standard).
There are certain factors to remember. First, be honest with yourself. If you have not exercised and prepared for this test in a safe manner, it is unrealistic to think that you would pass the PAT on test day. Criminal Justice Staff and this brochure will assist you in preparing for the exam.
This test measures both cardiovascular fitness, as well as dynamic strength. This refers to the aerobic capacity of an individual as well as their anaerobic capacity. Endurance and dynamic strength are factors for overall fitness.
GETTING READY
First you must aquire a Physicians Clearance to Test Form at the Criminal Justice Institute PBCC Lake Worth Campus. The form must be completed by a Florida Licensed Physician and returned to the CJI. When the form is returned the student will be allowed to sign up for the Physical Agility Test at the cost of $30.00. This test is valid for a period of six months from the date of administration. The Physicians Clearance to Test Form and receipt of payment must be returned to the Criminal Justice Institute Selection Center.
NUTRITION
A common sense approach to eating healty is required to meet maximum performance levels and maintain a healthy lifestyle whether you participate in the PAT or not. Foods from teh following groups are guidelines for good nutritional health:
Breads, Cereals, Rice, Grains: 6-11 servings a day. The emphasis should be on whole grains and limiting refined grains. Serving size is 1/2 cup.
Fruit: 2-4 servings a day. Serving size is 3/4 cup of fruit juice or 1/4 cup dried fruit.
Milk, Yogurt, Cheese: 2-3 servings a day. Serving size is 1 cup or 8 oz.
Meat, Fish, Poultry, Eggs, Dry Beans: 2-3 servings a day. Serving size is 1/2 cup.
Caffeine should be eliminated the morning of the PAT as often it can elevate your heart and blood pressure rate.
Applicants are encouraged to avoid taking "supplements." Often, these items can have adverse physiological effects unless prescribed by a licensed physician or registered dietician.
THE DAY OF THE PAT
Arrive at least 30 minutes before your scheduled test time. This will give you a chance to adjust, complete any necessary paperwork and not feel rushed. Dress in appropriate clothes for the PAT. T-shirts, gym shorts, socks and appropriate footwear for the run are essential. No offensive logos or caricatures should appear on any outerwear. You might want to bring your own water bottle.
Prior to the exam you should hydrate well with water. Sports drinks might help after the test, but water is the most important fluid to drink prior to taking the PAT.
TESTING
The PAT is composed of the exercise elements listed below. The test is designed to measure balance, muscular endurance, strength, flexibility, anaerobic and aerobic capacity plus fine motor skills
The obstacle course will include: - Two (2) 220 yard runs
- Dragging a 150lb. dummy 100 feet
- Jumping over obstacles 12 to 24 inches in height
- Climbing over a 40 inch wall
- Two (2) 50 foot sprints
- Serpentine movement around a series of pylons
- Total Time 6:04
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