Army's New Fitness Test: Can You Make the Cut?
The U.S. Army has revolutionized its physical fitness standards with the Army Combat Fitness Test (ACFT), a more comprehensive and challenging evaluation that replaces the decades-old Army Physical Fitness Test (APFT). This new assessment is designed to better prepare soldiers for the physical demands of modern combat and reduce injury rates.
The ACFT consists of six challenging events that test a soldier's total body strength, endurance, and functional fitness:
- Deadlift
- Standing Power Throw
- Hand-Release Push-Ups
- Sprint-Drag-Carry
- Plank
- Two-Mile Run
Unlike the previous test, which focused primarily on push-ups, sit-ups, and running, the new ACFT requires comprehensive physical preparation. Soldiers must demonstrate strength, power, and cardiovascular endurance across multiple disciplines. The test is gender and age-neutral, meaning all soldiers face the same challenging standards.
Initial implementation revealed that many soldiers struggled to meet the new requirements. In 2020, approximately 44% of soldiers failed the initial ACFT, highlighting the significant increase in physical demands. The Army has since made adjustments to scoring and implementation to ensure a fair transition.
For those aspiring to join or remain in the Army, preparation is key. Comprehensive strength training, functional fitness exercises, and targeted cardiovascular conditioning are essential to passing this rigorous test.
The ACFT represents more than just a fitness assessment—it's a commitment to ensuring soldiers are physically prepared for the unpredictable challenges of modern military service.
