Does Physical Capacity Affect the Ability to Apply Use of Force?

Abstract

Police work varies greatly in terms of the physical challenges that police officers are exposed to. Some physical challenges can be extremely demanding, for instance, situations where officers are compelled to arrest an intractable subject. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to examine how police studentsʼ physical capacity affects their ability to handle an intractable subject during a use of force and arrest simulation test. Six hundred and forty-six Danish police students completed four physical tests (Broad Jump, Bench Press, Pull-Ups, and 2000 meters rowing on an ergometer) and a test of their ability to apply use of force during an arrest simulation. Both bivariate correlation analyses and a multiple regression analysis revealed positive relationships between the studentsʼ physical capacity and their ability to use force and use of force techniques during an arrest simulation test. The study thus emphasizes the importance of police officersʼ physical capacity in connection with the solution of a demanding situation that involves use of force.