 |
| Left to right: Ofc. Paul Johnston, Ofc. Christian Cruz, Ofc. Mary Turner and Asst. Chief Stephen Merrifield |
The Canton Police Department requires applicants to perform a fitness test prior to being hired. The test consists of a timed obstacle course, where a candidate must run, jump, climb and drag a 160 lbs. dummy. This test is to insure the candidate is fit for service. However, like most agencies, they have not in the past offered programs to maintain a level of health and tested officers to make sure they maintain a fitness level to perform the demanding duties after being hired. As of April, 2015 the Canton Police Dept. is implementing a Cooper Institute fitness program.
The Cooper Institute has worked with fitness programs in law enforcement, public safety and military since 1976. Part of the Cooper Institute’s mission is to help shape and influence fitness programs throughout the nation.
The department will introduce a Cooper Institute recommended fitness assessment that consists of:
1. 1.5 Mile Run
2. 1 Minute Timed Sit Ups
3. 1 Minute Timed Push Ups
4. Flexibility (sit and reach)
5. Body Composition
Officers will also receive a stress and nutrition management course taught by a certified health and wellness instructor.
By implementing a physical fitness program, the Canton Police Department will promote responsibility among its officers to take control of their own health. This responsibility is positive, as law enforcement officers are held to a higher standard which allows them to provide an example to others. Being in excellent mental and physical condition not only helps the officer personally, but can affect the lives of the constituents of Canton and those they serve.
Chief Mark Mitchell stated “The goal of our new Wellness Program is to strengthen the health of our Officers both mentally and physically. We feel this will not only benefit the individual and agency but also will provide a more professional fit Officer to serve our community. This new program is a "work in progress" and will be introduced to help our employees assess their fitness level and provide helpful ways to improve their mental health, physical health, nutrition and reduce stress levels to meet the demands of this most noble of professions.”
