The Coast Guard physical fitness program is designed to ensure that all Coast Guard members have the strength and stamina to perform their jobs safely and to emphasize lifelong health and fitness.
The best way to succeed in our physical fitness program is to start preparing for training early. Start a swimming training program if you are not a strong swimmer or a non-swimmer. This will help you meet the fitness qualifications for graduation.
The training center has an expert staff that will help prepare you to meet the physical fitness qualifications. There are also remedial swim classes for those who need assistance in meeting the swim qualification.
The following chart explains the Coast Guard PFT standards:
|
Event |
Male |
Female |
|
Push-ups (60 sec) |
29 |
15 |
|
Sit-ups (60 sec) |
38 |
32 |
|
Run (1.5 mile) |
12:51 |
15.26 |
|
Sit and reach* |
16.50 " |
19.29" |
|
Complete swim circuit test |
Tread water 5 minutes |
|
|
Jump off 5-foot platform into pool, swim 100 meters |
*Sit and reach is a flexibility test that requires you to sit with your feet and legs together as you reach toward your feet. The measurement is taken by placing a measuring stick between your legs from your knees to your feet. To pass, you must reach 16.5 (for males) or 19.29 (for females) inches past your knees.
If you want to excel on the Coast Guard physical fitness assessment, check out Stew Smith's article, "Preparing for Boot Camp of Any Service."
Other Stew Smith PT programs to help you prepare for the Coast Guard PFT can be found in the following Military.com links:
Other related Coast Guard fitness articles:
- The Coast Guard Physical Fitness Program
- Coast Boot Special Missions and Law Enforcement Fitness Standards
- Coast Rescue Swimmer PFT Standards
- Performing for the Special Forces
- Physical Fitness Test Anxiety
Stew Smith is a former Navy SEAL and fitness author certified as a Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) with the National Strength and Conditioning Association. Visit his Fitness eBook store if you're looking to start a workout program to create a healthy lifestyle. Send your fitness questions to stew@stewsmith.com.
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