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Garda Fitness Requirements Eased: Sit-Ups and Push-Ups Scrapped Amid Recruitment Challenges

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In a significant move to address recruitment challenges, An Garda Síochána has relaxed its fitness requirements, removing the long-standing sit-up and push-up tests from its entry process. The change, effective from 15 February 2025, aims to increase application numbers and make the force more accessible to a wider range of candidates.

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Why the Changes Were Made

The decision follows concerns over declining recruitment figures and high failure rates in the previous physical assessments. In 2024, out of 520 applicants, 162 candidates failed the fitness test, with a notable portion of those being female candidates. By removing sit-ups and push-ups, Garda management hopes to reduce entry barriers while maintaining a focus on essential operational fitness.

John O’Driscoll, a senior Garda spokesperson, stated, “We recognise the importance of attracting individuals from diverse backgrounds. These changes are designed to ensure that capable candidates are not discouraged by elements of the test that may not reflect the real physical demands of modern policing.”

What the New Fitness Test Involves

Under the revised Physical Competency Test (PCT):

  • The sit-up and push-up components have been removed entirely.
  • The 20-metre shuttle run (bleep test) remains, with candidates required to reach Level 5.6 within 4 minutes and 54 seconds.
  • The new assessment is now standardised across all genders and ages, ensuring a fair and uniform evaluation process.

These adjustments aim to strike a balance between maintaining operational fitness standards and broadening the applicant pool.

Mixed Reactions to the New Requirements

The changes have prompted a range of reactions from both current and former Gardaí, as well as fitness experts.

✅ Support for Inclusivity:
Former Detective Inspector Pat Marry welcomed the changes, highlighting that they could attract candidates with valuable life experiences, including those aged up to 50 years old. “Policing isn’t just about physical strength; it’s about communication, empathy, and decision-making,” Marry remarked.

⚠️ Concerns Over Operational Readiness:
However, not everyone is supportive. Dr. Niall Moyna, a Professor of Clinical Exercise Physiology at Dublin City University, expressed concerns that lowering physical standards could undermine the effectiveness of officers in demanding situations. “While inclusivity is vital, Gardaí must still be prepared for the physical challenges of the job,” he cautioned.

A Wider Recruitment Strategy

The revised fitness test is part of a broader strategy to increase Garda numbers amid staffing shortages and growing demands on frontline services. With public trust and safety at stake, officials emphasise that psychological assessments, background checks, and academic testing will continue to uphold the force’s high standards.

The Gardaí are also exploring recruitment drives targeting underrepresented communities and enhanced retention strategies for serving members.

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Public Reaction and Looking Ahead

News of the relaxed fitness requirements has sparked lively discussions on social media and among the public. Some welcome the move as a practical solution to staffing shortages, while others fear it could compromise the physical readiness of future officers.

For prospective recruits, the changes represent an opportunity to pursue a career in policing without the fear of failing on physical technicalities that may not be crucial to everyday duties. However, time will tell whether these measures will successfully address recruitment challenges without sacrificing operational effectiveness.

With applications now open under the new criteria, An Garda Síochána hopes to see an increase in applicants ready to serve and protect Ireland’s communities.

✅ Key Takeaways:

  • Sit-ups and push-ups removed from Garda entry fitness tests.
  • Standardised testing regardless of age or gender.
  • New requirements aim to boost recruitment amid falling numbers.
  • Mixed public reaction: balancing inclusivity with operational readiness.

Would you consider joining under the new guidelines? Applications are now open.

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