Date of Award
Summer 7-22-2026
Document Type
Dissertation
Degree Name
Doctor of Kinesiology (EdD)
Department
Kinesiology
First Advisor
Robert Lockie
Second Advisor
Matthew Buns
Third Advisor
Andrew Shim
Abstract
Law enforcement recruits typically complete law enforcement agency (LEA) academy training before assuming sworn-in duty. Tactical strength and conditioning facilitators (TSAC-F) may need to modify program design based on their unique circumstances. The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of different training program designs in five state-mandated tests (vertical jump [VJ], 1-minute sit-ups and push-ups, 300-meter [300m] sprint, and 2.4-kilometer [2.4km] run) among LEA recruits at a Midwest LEA training academy. De-identified data for 26 LEA recruits (Periodized/Structured Group [PSG; n = 7]) and (Semi-structured Group [SSG; n = 19]) were retrospectively analyzed. Repeated measures ANOVA assessed within-subject change in measure scores between groups and independent t-tests compared change scores between groups (p < .05). Repeated measures ANOVA indicated both groups improved significantly from pre- to post-test (p < .05) on all five tests. From mid- to post-test, VJ (p > .05), 300m sprint (p = .133), and 2.4km run (p > .05) did not improve significantly, while sit-up (p = .008) and push-up (p = .009) repetitions did. Independent t-tests indicated the PSG experienced significantly greater improvement (p = .007; d = -1.309) in 300m sprint time from pre- to post-test compared with the SSG. No significant differences in change scores for all other tests were observed. TSAC-F can use structured or semi-structured training programs to improve physical fitness test performance during LEA academy training. Improvements in 300m sprint time and sit-up and push-up repetitions may benefit to a greater extent using a structured, block periodized training program.