PHYSICAL FITNESS OF MILITARY POLICE OFFICERS IN THE STATE OF GOIÁS

Abstract

The different functions assumed by military police officers demand a lot from them, both physically and emotionally. Thus, having good physical fitness becomes essential for military police officers to be able to fulfill their role and maintain their health in good condition. Objective: to investigate the physical fitness levels of military police officers in the state of Goiás. Methodology: Cross-sectional study that included 350 military police officers (47.8 + 11.6 years) with administrative-GADM and operational-GOP functions. Results: The GOP performed better in the 12-min Cooper test than the GADM (41.6 x 30.1 ml/kg/min, respectively; p<0.0001). The GADM had better lean mass than the GOP (75.06 + 13.8 x 72.3 + 9.7, respectively; p<0.0001), but the GOP presented greater arm muscle strength (41 + 15.5 x 38 + 17.8, respectively; p<0.0001). The body fat percentage of the GOP was higher than that of the GADM (16+2.1 x 12.6+6.1, respectively; p<0.0001). Final considerations: Except for the Vo2 max of the GADM, the military police officers of Goiás had a good level of physical fitness to the variables verified. Those of the GADM had a lower body fat percentage and greater lean mass, however, those of the GOP had a better VO2 max and more muscle strength in the arm. We suggest differentiated nutritional monitoring for military police officers in operational service, in addition to the engagement of all in a regular physical exercise program to improve their quality of life and health.