50 year old Rookie

[KillerKat]

Got the call last Monday, And have started gettin my "stuff" together. My big question is...
What sort of physical shape do I need to be in by the time I report to Albany's Academy on Jan 6th.

Thanks!

[R.Ray]

Very good question, I'll be 46 in Jan. Just getting started as well. I've been behind a desk, in the carpet business for about 5 months. Seriously out of shape.

[ironhide]

Always strive to be in the best shape you can for YOU, not for anything else. I started in corrections two years at 52 years old and can out sprint and out distance all other officers.

[AZCorrections84]

Yup, don't be afraid of gettin off your butt and doing something! The only thing that's stopping you from being able to pass the physical stuff is....YOU.

I'm sure you can do some searching online and find the requirements.

Welcome to the boards and GOOD LUCK!

[Kyle313]

Each state, county, or federal agency usually has its own PT standards if any. I would suggest at least getting into some sort of shape even if the agency you are apply at has minimal or no physical standards. Do it for yourself. You never know when an inmate is going to try you and you will end up in a fight for your life. I want the inmate to run out of steam before I do and help can arrive. Just some food for thought here.....I run 2 miles a day. I thought I was in pretty good shape. Last CERT training we put a guy in the red man suit and we went (or attempted to) spar using our unarmed self defense tactics (block his blows, throw blows of our own, and basically avoid getting knocked down) for 1 minute. (of course we weren't allowed to use any sort of takedown move on the guy in the redman suit so it was basically jab and move, block and move type stuff) Let me tell you....after about 30 seconds I was so winded I thought I was going to have a heart attack. I thought I was in shape....running, lifting and fighting are all very different types of physical activity. I changed my daily work out because of it. So if you don't do anything, I suggest you at least try to do something for your own good. It may save your life one day. If you do work out daily, I suggest to think about my scenario above and realize that just because you can bench or deadlift XX amount of weight etc. etc....or run every day like I did.....doesn't mean you will be able to stay winded and on your feet in a fight until the help arrives. The last place you want to be in a cell block is on the floor out of breath.

Ok, a little long post there...I apologize....be safe.....