ACFT New Standards

The Army Combat Fitness Test (ACFT) is the latest standard fitness test for United States Army soldiers. It replaced the Army Physical Fitness Test (APFT) in October 2020, which had been in use for about 30 years. The ACFT aims to provide a more accurate measure of a soldier’s overall physical fitness and readiness for combat.

The ACFT includes six events: deadlift, standing power throw, hand-release push-up, sprint-drag-carry, leg tuck, and a two-mile run. Each event assesses different aspects of a soldier’s physical abilities, such as strength, power, agility, and endurance. Notably, the test is designed to be gender- and age-neutral, meaning all soldiers, regardless of gender or age, must meet the same standards.

The new standards for the ACFT are higher than those of the APFT, emphasizing the Army’s commitment to physical fitness as a crucial aspect of combat readiness. To pass the test, soldiers must now score at least 60 points in each event, with a minimum overall score of 360. This represents a significant increase from the previous APFT standard of 180 points.

The ACFT is crafted to be a more precise reflection of the physical demands soldiers may encounter in combat situations. By setting higher standards, the Army ensures that all soldiers are well-prepared for the challenges they might face.

Overview of ACFT Test Events

The Army Combat Fitness Test (ACFT) is a recent fitness assessment replacing the older Army Physical Fitness Test (APFT). The ACFT evaluates an individual’s overall physical fitness and readiness for combat through six events, testing various aspects like strength, endurance, power, agility, and speed.

1. Deadlift: Assesses lower body strength, lifting weight from the ground to a standing position.
2. Standing Power Throw: Assesses upper body power by throwing a 10-pound medicine ball as far as possible.
3. Hand-Release Push-Up: Assesses upper body endurance with a push-up where hands release from the ground at the bottom.
4. Sprint-Drag-Carry: Assesses speed, agility, and endurance through a sequence of sprints, drags, and carries.
5. Leg Tuck: Assesses core strength, requiring participants to hang from a bar and perform a knee-to-elbow movement.
6. 2-Mile Run: Assesses cardiovascular endurance through a 2-mile run as fast as possible.

The ACFT is intended to be a comprehensive assessment of an individual’s fitness and readiness for combat. Precise training for each event is crucial for optimal performance.

Scoring and Grading for the ACFT

The ACFT employs a scoring and grading system based on a soldier’s performance in each of the six events. Scores range from 0 to 100, with a minimum passing score of 60 for each event. The overall performance is graded as “High,” “Moderate,” “Low,” or “Unsatisfactory,” with specific score ranges for each grade.

Soldiers scoring 550 or above receive a “High” grade, indicating exceptional fitness. Scores between 450 and 539 result in a “Moderate” grade, signifying satisfactory fitness. Scores between 360 and 449 lead to a “Low” grade, indicating marginal fitness. Scores below 360 result in an “Unsatisfactory” grade, indicating inadequate fitness.

Soldiers must achieve a minimum passing score of 360 to pass the ACFT. Failure requires remedial training, providing an opportunity for retesting.

In conclusion, the scoring and grading system ensures an accurate assessment of a soldier’s fitness and readiness for military duties, maintaining a high standard for physical readiness.

Training and Preparation for the ACFT

As the Army transitions to the new ACFT standards, proper training and preparation are essential for soldiers to meet the test’s demands. Focus on key areas during training:

1. Physical Conditioning: Emphasize muscular strength and endurance, especially in the core, legs, and upper body, through weightlifting and calisthenics.
2. Endurance Training: Include cardio exercises like running and cycling to enhance aerobic and anaerobic endurance.
3. Skill Development: Practice events like the standing power throw and leg tuck to improve technique and build confidence.
4. Nutrition and Hydration: Maintain a balanced diet with sufficient protein, carbohydrates, and healthy fats. Stay hydrated for peak performance.
5. Mental Preparation: Develop a positive mindset, visualize success, and manage stress through techniques like deep breathing and meditation.

Proper training ensures soldiers build the strength, endurance, skills, and mindset required to excel in the new ACFT standards.

Implementation of ACFT in the Army Fitness Program

The Army has introduced the Army Combat Fitness Test (ACFT) as the new standard fitness test for soldiers. It replaces the Army Physical Fitness Test (APFT) and is gradually implemented across the Army. The new test focuses on assessing soldier readiness and overall fitness levels, with an increased emphasis on functional fitness.

The implementation of the ACFT has been a gradual process, with the Army providing training and resources to help soldiers prepare. The test comprises six events: deadlift, standing power throw, hand-release push-ups, sprint-drag-carry, leg tuck, and a two-mile run. Soldiers must meet specific standards in each event to pass the overall test.

To ensure successful implementation, the Army offers online training modules, physical training sessions, and access to necessary equipment. Efforts are made to equip testing sites with the required resources and personnel for test administration.

While challenges, particularly regarding equipment and resources, have been encountered in the implementation process, the Army is committed to providing soldiers with the necessary support. The focus on functional fitness in the new test signifies a significant shift in assessing soldier readiness and fitness, preparing them for the physical demands of combat.

In summary, the implementation of the ACFT in the Army Fitness Program signifies a substantial change in how soldier readiness and fitness are assessed. With a heightened focus on functional fitness, the new test aims to better prepare soldiers for the physical demands of combat. Despite challenges, the Army is dedicated to supporting soldiers in succeeding in the new fitness test.

ACFT Calculator