Expert: Dick Rogers - 9/14/2007

Question
Hi,

I was wondering if yearly physicals were a requirement for all officers, even if you've been promoted to detective?

I watch a lot of bad television, and seldom see the Homicide investigators working out, or prepping for a physical. I know that's not the point of the shows, but I was curious if they had to keep in good shape.

Law & Order usually has one "older" detective and the "young" buck, who chases after the suspect while the older one runs out of breath.

Thanks for your time.
It's very cool that you do this.

Answer
Joe, you ask a question that has been bugging police administrators for decades...how to keep their officers in decent shape.  Bottom line, most young officers do keep in pretty good shape...many departments have fitness rooms as part of their setup.  Frankly, older cops, detectives primarily, do not spend a whole lot of time keeping in shape...their caseload sometimes dictates this, but fitness seems to be a young dynamic...sad but true.  I do think that nutrition and a reasonable workout schedule, i.e., a 30 minute fast walk each morning and evening could do a lot to improve the health of most older officers.  Some departments do take a stand on obesity and require officers to work a program into their routine to improve their health...much remains to be done...good question, Joe.