Each test is in the form of a circuit. They consist of exercises which resemble physical abilities used when responding to a critical incident where it is necessary to take physical control of a suspect/prisoner. Records show officers must run short distances during which they encounter changes in direction, jumping over obstacles, and climbing up and down flights of stairs in order to get to and handle an incident. While dealing with an incident, it is often necessary to pull and/or push suspects/prisoners to control them.

During such stressful and physically demanding action, the body’s physiological systems are required to respond at peak levels. The heart rate may reach a maximum level and muscular strength and endurance are tested at intermittent maximums for short periods of time (e.g. for 1 or 2 minutes). Throughout these experiences and afterwards, officers are expected to complete their duties, almost as though the physical exertion had not occurred.

These circuit tests are designed to demonstrate the minimum level of critical ability necessary to perform a given task. The tests are composed of these elements:

• when you encounter or are called to respond to an incident
• getting to the incident safely, resolving it and removing the problem

Therefore, the tests are constructed in the form of a circuit and include running and coordination abilities, clinical fighting abilities, including maximal cardiovascular stress. Finally, following a short recovery period, removing the problem. Circuit activities up to the completion of the fight sequence must be completed within the specified time limit.