Response to The Straits Times Forum Letter on ''Review of fitness test for soldiers''

IPPT a relevant gauge of fitness standards in SAF

We thank Mr Joel Chia for his letter titled "Review of fitness test for soldiers" dated 12 Jan 2012.

The IPPT serves as a good baseline measure of our soldiers' physical fitness. Appropriate standards are set for the various categories of servicemen and are similar to those used by other Armed Forces in the US and UK. These standards do vary according to gender, age and medical status of our servicemen.  

To help NS men prepare for IPPT, the SAF has implemented the Enhanced IPPT Preparatory Training (IPT) since April 2011. This gives our NSmen more flexibility and support to train their fitness level progressively. 

The SAF has a comprehensive medical screening policy in place to ensure that all SAF servicemen are medically fit for participation in strenuous physical activities including IPPT. The medical screening protocol for IPPT is jointly formulated with an expert panel comprising senior medical specialists from the public and private sectors. These medical guidelines conform to national and international standards for age-appropriate physical activities.

The SAF will continue to review its IPPT regime to ensure its continued relevance and safety.

Colonel Desmond Tan
Director Public Affairs
Ministry of Defence

MINDEF's reply was published as  "IPPT a good baseline measure of fitness: Mindef", The Straits Times, 16 Jan 12