Revised IPPT to have just three stations

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http://www.todayonline.com/singapore/revised-ippt-have-just-three-stations?singlepage=true

National Servicemen (NSmen) could soon have a better shot at passing their Individual Physical Proficiency Tests (IPPTs).

Components such as standing broad jump, pull-up and shuttle run will be scrapped. Instead of five stations, NSmen will have to clear only three — a 2.4km run, sit-ups and push-ups.

The standards expected and when the new test takes effect were not revealed. More details from an interview with Chief of Army Perry Lim will be made public soon.

Many other militaries use three-station tests to keep their forces fit. These include the United States Army’s physical fitness test, which consists of three stations — push-ups, sit-ups and a 3.2km run. In Israel, soldiers are assessed based on sit-ups, push-ups and a 2km run, while the Australian army tests pre-enlistees on push-ups, sit-ups and the shuttle run.

The new test will have more age bands and a new scoring system where, in place of pass marks for each stations, points will be awarded and combined. This way, soldiers can make up through more sit-ups, if they are weak in push-ups and running, or vice versa.

The Home Team — which includes those from the Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF) and the Singapore Police Force (SPF) — said on its Facebook page yesterday that it will also start using the new format next year. NSmen would be allowed to chose between the old and new IPPTs during the transition period.

In response to TODAY’s queries, the Education Ministry said it will review the new format’s implications on the Physical Education (PE) programme and National Physical Fitness Award (NAPFA).