Evidências científicas sobre aptidão física em policiais militares

Abstract

This study aimed to analyze and synthesize scientific evidence on the physical fitness of Brazilian military police officers between 2010 and 2025. It is an integrative literature review with a qualitative, exploratory-descriptive approach, based on the analysis of 34 studies retrieved from national and international databases. The results indicate that, although many officers present satisfactory levels of strength, endurance, and cardiorespiratory capacity, there is a high prevalence of overweight, obesity, low flexibility, and a high incidence of musculoskeletal injuries. Structured physical training programs, such as Circuit Training, Core Training, and high-density protocols, demonstrated significant positive effects on physical performance, including improvements in strength, endurance, and reduction of lower back pain. However, factors such as aging, insufficient sleep, occupational stress, use of personal protective equipment, and the lack of continuous institutional training policies negatively impact the maintenance of physical fitness throughout the career. Additionally, relevant differences were observed between operational and administrative roles, with the latter associated with poorer health indicators. It is concluded that physical fitness should be understood as a strategic factor for health and operational performance, requiring the implementation of continuous, periodized programs integrated with health promotion, including physical training, recovery, nutrition, and stress management, in order to ensure functional longevity and efficiency in police service.