Physical Efficiency Test (PET) - qualifying
The Physical Efficiency Test (PET) is also qualifying. Candidates must complete the notified endurance run within the prescribed time; there is no relaxation for written merit once the run is failed. The current notification fixes the distance and cut-off, and the same notice specifies reporting time, dress, and disqualification rules.
Core requirements
- Male candidates: commonly a 5 km run to be completed within 30 minutes.
- Female candidates: commonly a 2.5 km run within 20 minutes.
- Qualifying logic: finish within the time limit; position or rank in the run normally does not add written marks.
- Preparation: practise even pacing, steady breathing, and trial runs on a measured course; warm up before the test.
Worked example
A male candidate must cover 5 km in 30 minutes. What average pace is needed? Reasoning: 30 minutes divided by 5 km gives 6 minutes per km. At that pace, the candidate should reach 2 km at 12 minutes, 4 km at 24 minutes, and finish at 30 minutes. A 10 km/h average is required. Starting at 12 km/h for the first kilometre would bank time but risks fatigue; even pacing is safer. Answer: 6 min/km, or 10 km/h.
Traps
- Starting too fast and slowing sharply in the second half.
- Missing the reporting or starting gate; late entry can mean disqualification.
- Wearing unsuitable footwear or clothing.
- Ignoring hydration and medical advice before the test.
- Assuming the PET adds merit marks; it is pass or fail.