Survey findings on the types of physical abilities police officers used identified several requirements for recruits including the ability to move quickly over short distances, to apply and control dynamic directional forces, to control resisting male adults, to lift and carry heavy weights, and to perform demanding work for longer than 3 minutes. The POPAT protocol was developed as a valid, job-related, nondiscriminatory test of a candidate's ability to be trained to perform in these areas. The testing protocol distinguishes between a recruit's physical abilities and his physical fitness levels. It is comprised of normal life activities and appears easy to perform, thereby encouraging a positive attitude among participants. The authors believe POPAT's content validity and attention to Equal Employment Opportunity Commission guidelines should preclude legal challenges and help law enforcement overcome what has traditionally been a problematic area. 1 note