BLUF
A study comparing two simultaneous law enforcement academies evaluated a physical training program designed by strength and conditioning coaches using evidence-based practices against a traditional, instructor-led program. The evidence-based approach led to significantly greater improvements in physical fitness assessments, including mobility, power, endurance, and agility, while reducing injury rates by 40% compared to the traditional program.
Purpose of the Study
This study aimed to evaluate the effects of an evidence-based physical conditioning program compared to a traditional instructor-led program in improving fitness, occupational readiness, and injury reduction among law enforcement (LEO) cadets. Researchers hypothesized that an evidence-based approach tailored to the physical demands of law enforcement would lead to superior fitness outcomes and reduced injury rates during a 12-week academy.
Testing and Training Protocols
Testing Protocols:
Cadets were assessed at the start (week 1) and end (week 12) of the academy using a comprehensive battery of tests:
- Body Measurements: Weight, BMI, and body fat percentage.
- Functional Movement Screening (FMS): Evaluated mobility and injury risk.
- Muscular Power: Vertical jump height and calculated lower-body power.
- Muscular Endurance: Push-ups and plank tests.
- Agility: T-Drill completion times.
- Anaerobic Endurance: 300-yard shuttle runs.
Training Protocols:
Intervention Group (Evidence-Based Program):
Designed using the NSCA Tactical Athlete Training Framework with progressive, targeted cycles:
- Dynamic Warm-Ups: Flexibility, core stabilization, and hip activation drills.
- Strength & Power Development: Squats, push-ups, lunges, and plyometric drills (e.g., squat jumps).
- Agility and Anaerobic Conditioning: T-Drills, cone drills, and interval sprints.
- Individualized Corrective Exercises: Addressed FMS findings to improve mobility and reduce asymmetries.
- Periodic rest weeks to avoid overuse injuries.
Control Group (Traditional Program):
Standardized instructor-led training:
- Formation runs (e.g., 1.5–2 miles).
- High-volume calisthenics (e.g., push-ups, sit-ups).
- Minimal progression or individualized adaptation.
Results: Fitness Improvements and Injury Rates
The intervention group demonstrated superior improvements across all fitness domains compared to the control group. The table below summarizes the outcomes:
| Assessment | Intervention Group | Control Group |
|---|---|---|
| FMS Score (Mobility) | 14% improvement | No significant change |
| Push-Ups (Muscular Endurance) | 31% increase | 25% increase |
| Plank Duration (Muscular Endurance) | 86% increase | 61% increase |
| Vertical Jump Height (Lower-Body Power) | 4.1% increase | No significant change |
| T-Drill Time (Agility) | 6% decrease (improved agility) | No significant change |
| 300-Yard Shuttle Time (Anaerobic Endurance) | 4.4% improvement | Minimal improvement |
| Weight/BMI | Slight reduction | Slight reduction |
Injury Rate Comparisons:
- Intervention Group:
- Injury rates were 40% lower due to the implementation of corrective exercises and progressive overload principles.
- Improved FMS scores reduced biomechanical risks, leading to fewer strains and overuse injuries.
- Control Group:
- Higher injury rates were attributed to repetitive, high-volume calisthenics and running without individualized modifications.
- Common injuries included muscle strains, joint discomfort, and overuse issues, particularly among cadets with low FMS scores.
Conclusions
The study demonstrates that an evidence-based physical conditioning program significantly outperforms traditional instructor-led programs in improving fitness outcomes and reducing injuries. Key takeaways include:
- Improved Fitness Metrics: Superior gains in mobility, power, agility, and endurance in the intervention group.
- Injury Reduction: A 40% lower injury rate due to individualized corrective exercises and mobility training.
- Practical Application: Adopting evidence-based frameworks can better prepare cadets for the physical demands of law enforcement while minimizing injury risk.
Sources
Melton, B., Nagel, M., Lanham, K., Anglin, T., & Ryan, J. (2024). An evidence-based approach to physical conditioning in American recruit law enforcement academies. International Journal of Community Medicine and Public Health, January 2024. (Link)