Medical and Physical Fitness Assessment
What is checked
Candidates face a medical examination (height, weight, vision, hearing, dental, cardiovascular, respiratory, skin, and general physical condition) and a physical fitness test (running, sit-ups, push-ups, and sometimes swimming or a shuttle run). Standards vary by entry, so confirm the current official figures for your batch rather than relying on older guides.
Common disqualifiers and how to prepare
- Eyesight: uncorrected and corrected limits are specified; know your prescription and get an eye test early.
- Weight and BMI: aim for a steady, healthy range through diet and training, not crash dieting.
- Flat feet, knock knees, and varicose veins are examined; if you have concerns, consult a doctor before the exam.
- Hearing and dental issues are correctable - treat them months in advance.
- Skin conditions such as active infections should be resolved before reporting.
Training sensibly
Build up over eight to twelve weeks. Alternate running days with strength days, include rest days, and increase distance by no more than about 10% per week. Practise the exact test format - timed sit-ups and push-ups with correct form - because sloppy repetitions are not counted. Hydrate well and sleep adequately; fatigue causes injury and poor scores.
Traps to watch
- Training hard the day before the test and arriving sore.
- Ignoring a minor injury until it becomes serious.
- Wearing new, unbroken shoes on test day.
- Skipping breakfast and risking dizziness during the run.
Rule of thumb
Train the test, not just fitness: rehearse the exact events, under time pressure, at least twice before the assessment.