The test presently consists of three stations: sit-up, push-up, and 2.4 km (1.5 mi) run.
When National Service was first introduced in Singapore in 1967, the physical fitness test included a 4.8 km (3.0 mi) run to be completed within 30 minutes, and the completion of a 9.6 km (6.0 mi) run within 70 minutes while wearing the skeletal battle order (a type of load-bearing equipment).
In 1979, this test was replaced by the IPPT, which consisted of five stations: push-up, sit-up, chin-up, half-knee bend and a 2.4 km (1.5 mi) run.
[4] The current format of the IPPT was adapted from the National Physical Fitness Assessment (NAPFA) test protocol developed by the Singapore Sports Council and launched in 1982.
Its standards were derived from a NAPFA study, in which the results were scientifically compiled and calibrated to fairly address the various physical fitness abilities of different age groups.
[6] The IPPT is applicable to all NSFs, NSmen and regulars who hold the Physical Employment Standards (PES) status of A, B/B1 or B2/C1.
Based on his/her score, the person may be awarded the Gold, Silver or Pass standard, and he/she may receive a monetary incentive accordingly.
To qualify for admission to the Officer Cadet School or Specialist Cadet School, recruits undergoing Basic Military Training have to obtain either a Gold or Silver standard in the IPPT before they pass out – in addition to fulfilling other requirements.
[3] This continues until they are posted to the Ministry of Defence Reserves or when they are medically downgraded to a Physical Employment Standards (PES) status of C2 or below.
NSmen were allowed to attempt the IPPT as many times as they wished, provided they had not already achieved the Gold standard.
Under the initial version of the scheme, they had to meet certain Personal Performance Targets, similar to the IPPT Standards, before the 10th session in order to be exempted from Remedial Training.