The Army physical fitness program has two factors: the weigh-in and the physical fitness test, or PFT. The APFT is a three-event physical performance test used to assess endurance. It is a simple way to measure your physical strengths, abilities, and cardio-respiratory fitness. The intent of the APFT is to provide a baseline assessment regardless of your Military Occupational Specialty. The APFT is to be taken at least twice a calendar year and you must be able to meet the minimum standards to be eligible for promotion, transfer, and to attend Army schools.
The Army physical fitness program has two factors: the weigh-in and the physical fitness test, or PFT. The APFT is a three-event physical performance test used to assess endurance. It is a simple way to measure your physical strengths, abilities, and cardio-respiratory fitness. The intent of the APFT is to provide a baseline assessment regardless of your Military Occupational Specialty. The APFT is to be taken at least twice a calendar year and you must be able to meet the minimum standards to be eligible for promotion, transfer, and to attend Army schools.
The three PFT events are two minutes of push-ups, two minutes of sit-ups, and a timed 2-mile run. Your results from each event are assigned a score. To pass you must Score 180 points or higher with at least 60 points in each event. Your age, gender and the amount of repetitions or time elapsed for each event determines your score. Unlike other military endurance tests the APFT is normally performed in normal workout gear and running shoes.
The following chart shows examples of the minimum requirements for the Army PFT:
| Age Group | Gender | Push-Ups | Sit-Ups | 2-Mile Run |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 17 - 21 | Male | 42 | 53 | 15:54 |
| Female | 19 | 53 | 18:54 | |
| 22 - 26 | Male | 40 | 50 | 16:36 |
| Female | 17 | 50 | 19:36 |
This table reflects the Army's bare minimum PFT requirements, these scores are considered below average and may reflect poorly on your record. If you want to maximize your score on the Army PFT you will need to commit to a regular workout routine. To maximize your score on the Army PFT you will need to commit to a regular work out routine.
Many of my favorite PT programs to train for the Army PFT can be found in the following Military.com links:
Other Related Army Fitness Articles:
- Army Basic Training PFT Requirements
- Army Weight Standards
- Army Ranger Fitness
- Performing for the Special Forces
- Physical Fitness Test Anxiety
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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. If you are interested in starting a workout program to create a healthy lifestyle - check out the Military.com Fitness eBook store and the Stew Smith article archive at Military.com. To contact Stew with your comments and questions, e-mail him at stew@stewsmith.com.