Less than 13 percent of police officers in the United States are women -- despite their proven effectiveness in diffusing violent situations and reducing the use of force. Drawing on more than two decades of experience as a police officer and chief, TED Fellow Ivonne Roman shares how a simple change to police academy physical fitness tests could help build a more balanced force that benefits communities and officers alike.

Ivonne Roman: How policewomen make communities safer

How policewomen make communities safer

A shift in NJ police fitness policy saw women failing at staggering rates, unveiling a broader issue in police recruitment.

Evidence shows policewomen excel in de-escalating violence, yet face barriers due to outdated physical fitness standards.

Adapting fitness tests to be inclusive and evidence-based can boost policewomen's numbers, leveraging their unique strengths.