NSmen have done better with new 3-station IPPT format: Ng Eng Hen
A demonstration of the sit-ups station that will be included in the revised Individual Physical Proficiency Test (IPPT). TODAY file photo
SINGAPORE — The new three-station Individual Physical Proficiency Test (IPPT) format motivates NSmen to “max out” for each station to get the most points, said Defence Minister Ng Eng Hen today (Feb 26), revealing that overall NSmen have done better in the new IPPT trial.
“Overall, NSmen did better. They did more sit-ups and average times for the 2.4km run were faster. For some, as much as two minutes – a big improvement!” said Dr Ng in a Facebook post.
The motivation to do their best for each station is good “because more will likely pass the new IPPT”, said Dr Ng.
However, the better performance did not appear to result in many more NSmen getting Golds.
Dr Ng said: “Did many more get Gold? Not quite. There was some increase but the proportion of Gold was still only in the single digits.”
The Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) will share more information soon, he added.
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Dr Ng had announced in July last year that the IPPT for national servicemen would take on a new format this year and have only three test stations instead of the former five: A 2.4km run, sit-ups, as well as push-ups, which are new to the IPPT. The other three stations — standing broad jump, pull-ups and shuttle run — will be scrapped. National servicemen will earn points pegged to their performance at each station.
The revised IPPT format will be implemented throughout the SAF from April this year for regulars, full-time NSmen and NSmen, with active servicemen being held to a higher passing standard.
It was piloted from September to November last year to fine-tune the administration of the new test.
