Cape Town, July 20: Sit-ups, push-ups and pull-ups will, from Monday onwards, make Cape Town metro police officers who are just a bit too visible, sweat.
In terms of a fitness and health policy which was approved last year, all metro law enforcers and traffic officers will have to get into gym gear to meet international fitness standards.
JP Smith of the mayoral committee for safety and security for the City of Cape Town, said on Sunday that officials’ fitness levels will be tested quarterly.
A little extra fat around the middle, however, is not their main focus.
Fitness tests
“If officers are unfit, they struggle to do their jobs. It’s not just about health. They need to be able to defend themselves.”
These fitness tests are based on international practice and the Western Cape’s fire fighting services have been keeping fit in this way for several years.
Those who don’t meet the target, will join in with a special programme and receive extra help. If they still can’t make it, they will be removed from operational service and given an administrative desk job.
Smith says he is also willing to take part in the programme.
“We don’t expect them to become fit overnight.”
—Agencies