Thursday, 19 Sep 2024

US Army Physical Fitness Test (AFPT)

The US Army takes fitness assessments seriously for both new recruits and serving soldiers. In this article, we will discuss the fitness requirements and standards set by the Army. Please note that this information is subject to change, and we recommend referring to official sources for the most up-to-date information. Let’s dive into the details!

Occupational Physical Assessment Test

The Occupational Physical Assessment Test (OPAT) is a battery of four physical fitness test events used to evaluate the physical capabilities of new Army recruits. These test events include:

  1. Standing long jump: Measure your jump for distance.
  2. Seated power throw: Throw a 2kg medicine ball as far as possible with your back against a wall.
  3. Strength deadlift: Test your lower body strength.
  4. Interval aerobic run: Participate in the shuttle run “beep test” to assess your aerobic fitness.

Army Combat Fitness Test

The Army Combat Fitness Test (ACFT), previously known as the Army Combat Readiness Test, is a newly designed fitness testing protocol that closely simulates the physical actions performed by Army personnel on the battlefield. Starting in October 2020, all Soldiers will be required to take the new gender and age-neutral test. The scoring system is still being finalized, but it is expected to be a gender and age-neutral system with 100 points available for each of the six events, and a minimum standard of 60 points.

The only component carried over from the previous testing protocol is the 2-mile run. For more detailed information on the current test, please refer to the Army Physical Fitness Test described later in this article.

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The 6 Tests of the ACFT

  1. 2-Mile Run: Run 2 miles (3.22km) as fast as possible.
  2. 250-meter sprint/drag/carry: Start in the prone position, sprint 25 meters to the far line, return to the start line, pull a sled backwards to the far line, return with the sled to the start line, grab two 30-pound kettlebells and run 25 meters to the far line, return with the kettlebells to the start line, drop the kettlebells, sprint 25 meters to the far line, and return to the start/finish line.
  3. Max Weight Deadlift: Test your lower body strength with a 3-repetition max using the deadlift exercise.
  4. Leg Tuck: Hang from a climbing bar with alternating grip, flex your elbows, hips, and knees to bring your knees up and touch your elbows, then return to the hanging position. Repeat as many times as possible.
  5. Standing Power Throw: Toss a 10-pound medicine ball backward over your head for maximum distance.
  6. Hand Release Push-up: Start in the down position, push your body into the up position, lower your body to the ground, momentarily lift your hands off the ground, and return to the starting position.

The Army Physical Fitness Test (soon to be outdated)

The APFT is designed to assess the muscular strength/endurance and cardiovascular respiratory fitness of soldiers in the US Army. Army personnel are required to take the APFT every 6 months, unless they have an injury or a valid reason for not participating. The APFT ensures that soldiers maintain their physical fitness and readiness.

The testing battery for the APFT consists of three tests:

  • Sit-ups (number in 2 minutes)
  • Push-ups (number in 2 minutes)
  • 2-mile run (fastest time)
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Alternatives

If a soldier has a permanent medical condition that prevents them from completing the 2-mile run, they can opt for an alternate event such as a 2.5-mile walk, 800-yard swim, or a 6.2-mile bike. However, there is no alternative for the other two tests.

Assessment

Soldiers are scored based on their performance in the three tests. The scoring scale takes into account factors like sex, age, and performance level for each event. Scores typically range from 0 to 300. To pass the APFT, a total score of 180 or higher is required, with a minimum score of 60 in each event. Soldiers who score 270 or above, with a minimum of 90 in each event, are awarded the Physical Fitness Badge, which can be worn on the PT uniform. The APFT score also converts to promotion points used to determine eligibility for promotions to the ranks of Sergeants and Staff Sergeants.

It’s important to note that consecutive failures in the APFT can potentially lead to discharge from the US Army, although this is not always the case. In some instances, soldiers may be placed into a remedial program with extra PT sessions.

More Information

For the most up-to-date information, we recommend consulting the Army Field Manual FM 21-20, which provides comprehensive details on administering the APFT.

Disclaimer

The workplace assessment tests listed in this article were accurate at the time of access. However, testing protocols and standards often change. For accurate and up-to-date information, please refer to official sources. If you have any corrections or questions, feel free to contact us or use the comments form below.

FAQs

Q: What are the physical fitness tests for new Army recruits?
A: New Army recruits are required to take the Occupational Physical Assessment Test (OPAT), which consists of four physical fitness test events.

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Q: When will the Army Combat Fitness Test (ACFT) be implemented?
A: The ACFT will be implemented for all Soldiers starting in October 2020.

Q: What happens if a soldier cannot participate in the 2-mile run?
A: If a soldier has a permanent medical condition that prevents them from completing the 2-mile run, they can choose an alternate event such as a 2.5-mile walk, 800-yard swim, or a 6.2-mile bike. There are no alternatives for the other two tests.

Q: How is the Army Physical Fitness Test (APFT) scored?
A: Soldiers are scored based on their performance in the three tests. The scoring scale considers factors like sex, age, and performance level for each event.

Conclusion

Maintaining physical fitness is crucial for every soldier in the US Army. The Army has implemented various fitness tests, including the Occupational Physical Assessment Test (OPAT), the Army Combat Fitness Test (ACFT), and the soon-to-be outdated Army Physical Fitness Test (APFT). These tests evaluate soldiers’ strength, endurance, and cardiovascular fitness, ensuring they are prepared for the physical demands of their roles. By meeting the fitness requirements and standards, soldiers can not only excel in their careers but also contribute effectively to the Army’s mission. For more information, please visit Auralpressure.