Physical Capacity Profile testing?

[pandora44]

Does anyone have any experience with a post-offer, pre-employment test called the Physical Capacity Profile? I've Googled it and it looks like an exercise machine that is supposed to measure your physical strength. What exactly does this involve? The HR department said they had only every had a few people not pass, but its still got me a little worried. Any information was be appreciated.

Thanks.

[lalalalexi]

I had to do this for my job now. They were very vague with me too and I didnt know what to expect. Make sure you wear comfortable clothes! I wore jeans and sandals and this made things a little harder. Wear gym clothes and tennis shoes. First they tested my breath capacity. I then had to do as many sit ups and squats that I could in a certain amount of time. They used a small machine to test my grip strength. Then I went to where the big machine was. It's all "isometric" so you never actually move. There are bars and it looks like a big piece of gym equipment. You'll be asked to push, pull and twist certain bars and levers as hard as you can for 15 seconds with rest periods in between. The bars and levers dont move so it feels somewhat unnatural to push/pull/twist something that doesnt move. But the machine measures how strong you are. I also had to do a lift test where they added weights to a tupperware type bin and i had to pick it up and set it down. They keep adding weights until you can't lift anymore. I am sure it's a little different depending on where you go. I was hired for a "medium" work load job and I passed without problems. You will probably be a little sore afterward unless you workout. Good luck!

[pandora44]

Thank you so much. At least I'll know what to expect. My paperwork says that if I have any questions about the test to ask when I called to make my appointment. I asked, but she said, "I don't really know. I didn't have to take the test." Not too helpful. I don't work out, so I'm sure I'll be sore. Thanks again.