Morphological profile and physical activity readiness among Portuguese police officers in the Lisbon metropolitan areaIntroduction: Maintaining body fat levels within recommended ranges is essential for optimal physical performance among police officers.
Objectives: To determine the morphological profile and readiness for physical activity among police officers according to sex and age group.
Methods: This cross-sectional study included 546 police officers assigned to the Lisbon metropolitan area. Morphological assessment was performed using anthropometric measurements and bioelectrical impedance analysis. Readiness for physical activity was assessed using the Physical Activity Readiness Questionnaire.
Results: Among the participants, 38.5% had a normal body mass index, 78.2% had a waist circumference below the recommended cutoff value, 67.8% had a normal conicity index, 59.9% had a metabolic age equal to or lower than their chronological age, 89.6% presented healthy total body water levels, 52.9% had a healthy body fat percentage, and 65.8% were classified as ready for physical activity. Conversely, 49.6% of officers were classified as overweight and 11.6% as obese according to body mass index. High or very high waist circumference was observed in 14.7% of participants, while 32.2% presented an increased conicity index. A metabolic age greater than chronological age was identified in 40.1% of officers. Total body water levels were below the healthy range in 8.4% and above the healthy range in 2.0% of participants. Regarding body fat percentage, 30.0% were classified as overweight and 13.7% as obese. Restrictions to physical activity readiness were identified in 21.2% of officers, while 13.0% were considered completely unfit for physical activity.
Conclusions: Most police officers demonstrated an acceptable morphological profile. However, the high prevalence of excess body weight and adiposity indicates potential health and fitness concerns, which are reflected in limitations regarding readiness for physical activity. These findings highlight the importance of regular monitoring and targeted interventions aimed at weight management and the promotion of physical fitness within police forces.
Keywords
age groups; body composition; exercise; health of specific groups; work capacity evaluation