Police need better exercise regime

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A coroner says police need to introduce a regular exercise programme to avoid deaths like that of a Sergeant Stephen McCarthy, who had a heart attack while doing a fitness test.

Mr McCarthy, 54, died after finishing a physical competency test, which officers are required to complete every two years.

He was overweight, a smoker and was taking angina medication, Fairfax Media reported.

Following an inquest into his death, Coroner Tim Scott found that this test alone was not enough to ensure police stayed fit.

"In my view, what is needed is a sustained active programme within the police to encourage fitness, which is more than just words."

- NZPA