As a law enforcement officer, you are not required by law to keep high levels of fitness. In fact, the requirements are pretty low. However, as police work is a demanding and stressful job, you will not only perform better but you will extend your life and be a lot healthier.
Health Risks in Law Enforcement
Law enforcement is an incredibly rewarding job but it is demanding as well. You will work long hours, have little time to eat proper meals, and experience high stress. All of this can lead to health problems if you don’t take action to prevent it. LEO (Law Enforcement Officer) fitness is the key to helping you be as healthy as possible, improve your quality of life, and do your job to the best of your ability.
Two critical aspects of LEO fitness are cardiovascular health and muscular fitness. Studies show that 41 percent of LEOs are obese and the average heart attack age is 18 years below the national average at 49. Improving your cardiovascular health is critical not just for job performance but to live out your years with your family.
Muscular strength is important because people start losing it after the age of 30. This means that if you don’t take active steps to improve your strength, you will lose 0.5 percent of your muscle mass every year. Because muscular strength is so important in your daily work, you need to have a routine that includes lifting weights and maintaining your muscular strength at least three days a week.
Additional Fitness Improvement
In addition to exercise for a healthy heart and strong muscles, you need to pay attention to your eating and sleeping habits. To improve the quality of the food that you are eating, stay away from pre-packaged processed foods. Reduce your carbohydrate intake and eat a lot of fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats.
Sleep is another important health factor. Sleep gives your body time to recover and heal. It also regulates your hormonal balance. Hormones are critical for your immune system, your digestive system, and your ability to build and maintain strength.