Part 2 - Staying In Shape

by KYW's Michelle Durham

The first test that future FBI agents receive when they arrive at Quantico occurs on day two, and it's a test they've taken before - the Fit Test.

When prospective agents applied at the FBI field office near their home towns, they were given the Fit Test.  Because it can take some time for the person to be assigned to a class, the FBI wants to make sure the agents have maintained their fitness levels.

Special Agent Jay Moeller is one of the instructors overseeing the test.  It involves how many sit-ups the new agents can do in a minute, followed immediately by a 300-meter sprint, push-ups, and a mile and a half run.

Moeller explains you can't do the push-up's any old way:

"On the push-up's, what we're looking for is for their arms.  Elbow to shoulder be a 90-degree to flat plane.  When they come up they have to extend their arms fully so their elbows aren't bent. And they have to keep their bodies straight."

(Michelle): "Anything else doesn't count?" 

(Moeller):  "Anything else doesn't count."

The combination of activities took its toll on some of the new agents.  But standing by to show their support and encouragement were the Chaplain and many of their instructors.  Tim Burke, Unit Chief of New Agent's Training, explains why fitness is so important...

"To be in good condition is not only a good lifestyle choice, but it is also critical to being able to survive certain situations."

(Michelle): "It could save their life?"

(Burke): "Absolutely."