#25 Are Lower Fitness Standards Putting Tactical Teams at Risk?

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In law enforcement, the military, and other tactical organizations, the beep test has long been a benchmark for assessing aerobic fitness—ensuring recruits are physically ready to meet the demands of their duties.

But here's the catch: in recent years, many organizations have lowered their entry standards to attract more recruits. While this may seem like a win for diversity and accessibility, it raises some serious questions:

What’s the cost of reduced standards?

• Increased risk of injuries
• Lower training quality
• Shorter career longevity
• Compromised long-term health and welfare
• A potential dip in operational effectiveness

Whether you're already in a tactical career or aiming to join, it’s critical to understand the risks tied to declining fitness thresholds—for both personal health and team competency.

Tune in to the latest podcast episode, where we explore into the risks vs. rewards of lowered standards and how we can better balance recruitment goals with operational readiness.

Listen now and join the conversation!