Are you ready for the new physical fitness test? The Army Fitness Test (AFT) is here to boost Soldier fitness. It also aims to make the Army more ready for war and more deadly.
The AFT has five events to test your fitness. These events check your muscular strength, endurance, and quick power. For more on the AFT standards and how to prepare, check out this resource on physical fitness test standards.
Key Takeaways
- The AFT is the new physical fitness test for all Soldiers.
- It consists of five events: deadlift, hand-release push-up, sprint-drag-carry, plank, and two-mile run.
- The AFT aims to enhance Soldier fitness and warfighting readiness.
- Understanding the AFT requirements is crucial for Soldiers to prepare.
- The AFT replaces the Army Combat Fitness Test.
Overview of the Army Fitness Test
The Army Fitness Test (AFT) is a key tool to check if Soldiers are ready physically. It makes sure they can handle their job’s demands.
What is the Army Fitness Test?
The AFT tests a Soldier’s fitness with physical challenges. It’s a five-event test that checks strength, endurance, and quick power. It’s made to be fair for all, preparing them for combat.
Importance of Physical Readiness
Being fit is key for Soldiers. It helps them do their job well and safely. It also lowers injury risks and boosts readiness. For more on staying fit, including height and weight, check the official Army height and weight calculator.
Basic Components of the Test
The AFT has five events to check different fitness areas. These events are vital for combat readiness and other duties. Knowing the AFT helps Soldiers prepare well and meet the army fitness test requirements and army fitness test guidelines.
- Event 1: [Description]
- Event 2: [Description]
- Event 3: [Description]
- Event 4: [Description]
- Event 5: [Description]
Understanding the AFT helps Soldiers get ready for military life’s challenges.
Requirements for Taking the Army Fitness Test
To take the Army Fitness Test, soldiers must meet certain requirements. These vary by age, gender, and Military Occupational Specialty (MOS). The goal is to make sure soldiers are ready for their jobs.
Age and Gender Standards
The Army Fitness Test scores soldiers differently based on age and gender. It recognizes that physical abilities change with age. It also aims to be fair, considering gender differences in physical performance.
Age and Gender Scoring Standards
| Age Group | Gender | Minimum Score |
|---|---|---|
| 17-21 | Male | 60 |
| 17-21 | Female | 60 |
| 22-26 | Male | 60 |
| 22-26 | Female | 60 |
Waivers and Exceptions
Some soldiers might get waivers or exceptions for the Army Fitness Test. For instance, those with medical conditions or injuries might get a waiver. This could mean retaking the test later or doing a modified version.
It’s important for soldiers to know about the waiver process and what documents they need.
Preparing for the Test
Getting ready for the Army Fitness Test needs a solid plan. This includes a training program and good nutrition. Soldiers should work on endurance, strength, and agility to do well.
Army Fitness Test Scoring and Tips
The AFT scores differently for combat and non-combat MOSs. Soldiers need to score at least 60 points per event and 350 overall for combat MOSs. To prepare well, soldiers should:
- Do regular cardio to boost endurance.
- Do strength training to improve physical performance.
- Practice the test’s specific events.
Components of the Army Fitness Test
Knowing the parts of the Army Fitness Test is key for soldiers to get ready. The test checks a soldier’s fitness through tough events.
APFT vs. ACFT: Key Differences
The Army Fitness Test has changed, with the Army Physical Fitness Test (APFT) now replaced by the Army Combat Fitness Test (ACFT). The ACFT tests more areas of fitness than the APFT.
The APFT had push-ups, sit-ups, and a 2-mile run. The ACFT includes deadlifts, hand-release push-ups, arm extensions, sprint-drag-carry, plank, and a 2-mile run.
Description of Test Events
The ACFT has five events to check different fitness areas:
- Three-repetition maximum deadlift
- Hand-release push-up
- Sprint-drag-carry
- Plank
- Two-mile run
Scoring Criteria Explained
The ACFT scores are based on each event. The system rewards soldiers for meeting certain standards.
For more on preparing for the Army Fitness Test, check out preparing for basic training.
| Event | Maximum Score | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Three-repetition maximum deadlift | 100 | Measures strength |
| Hand-release push-up | 100 | Assesses upper body endurance |
| Sprint-drag-carry | 100 | Evaluates agility and strength |
| Plank | 100 | Measures core endurance |
| Two-mile run | 100 | Assesses cardiovascular endurance |
Preparing for the Army Fitness Test
To prepare for the Army Fitness Test, you need a solid plan. This plan should cover physical training and nutrition. It’s key to work on both to get ready for the test.
Effective Training Programs
Good training for the Army Fitness Test mixes strength and endurance. Tailored programs can boost your fitness. For more details, check the official Army website.
- Cardiovascular exercises like running and cycling
- Strength training to build muscle endurance
- Flexibility exercises for better mobility
| Training Component | Description | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| Cardiovascular Training | Running, cycling, or swimming to improve heart health and endurance | 3-4 times a week |
| Strength Training | Weightlifting or bodyweight exercises to build muscle | 2-3 times a week |
| Flexibility Exercises | Stretching to improve flexibility and reduce injury risk | 2-3 times a week |
Nutrition Tips for Optimal Performance
Good nutrition is crucial for the Army Fitness Test. Eat a balanced diet with proteins, complex carbs, and healthy fats.
- Stay hydrated before, during, and after training
- Eat complex carbs for lasting energy
- Add lean proteins for muscle repair and growth
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Many soldiers make mistakes that hurt their performance. These include not training enough, poor nutrition, and not resting enough.
- Not giving enough time for recovery between sessions
- Ignoring nutrition needs based on training intensity
- Not drinking enough water during and after training
Avoid these mistakes and focus on good training and nutrition. This will help you do well in the Army Fitness Test.
Frequently Asked Questions
Soldiers often wonder about the Army Fitness Test. They ask about how often it’s done and what happens if they fail. Knowing these details helps them prepare better.
How Often is the Test Conducted?
The Army Fitness Test’s frequency changes based on the unit and command. It’s usually done often to keep soldiers fit. Army rules say it checks if soldiers can do their jobs well.
Regular testing spots where soldiers might need more training. It makes sure they’re always ready.
What if I Fail the Test?
Failing the test can affect a soldier’s career. But, it’s not the end. Soldiers can retake it, depending on the situation and the officer’s choice.
Army rules say failing might mean extra training and another test. This shows how important it is to prepare well and get help when needed.
Can I Retake the Test?
Yes, soldiers can try again if they fail. The rules for when to retake it vary by unit and how well the soldier did.
Retaking the test is a chance to get better and prove oneself. It’s a way to fix past mistakes and show dedication to the job.
Test Administration and Procedures
It’s key for soldiers to know how the Army Fitness Test (AFT) works. This helps them get ready well.
Locations Where the Test is Conducted
The AFT happens at certain spots. These include:
- Army bases and forts
- Training facilities
- Reserve centers
Make sure to check where your test is. This way, you’ll know where to go.
Required Documentation
To take the AFT, you need some papers. These are:
- Valid identification
- Medical clearance (if needed)
- Other papers as the test admins say
Check your documents twice. This helps avoid problems on test day.
COVID-19 Considerations and Protocols
The Army has set up safety rules for the AFT because of COVID-19. These include:
- Social distancing
- Wearing masks
- Cleaning more often
Know these rules to make the test go smoothly.
Learning about the AFT’s test setup helps soldiers prepare. This way, they can do well on the test.
Resources for Further Information
The Army offers many resources to help Soldiers get ready for the Army Fitness Test. These include official publications, online training sites, and contact info for local recruiters. These tools help Soldiers understand the test rules and prepare well.
Official Publications and Guidelines
The Army has official guides and manuals for the fitness test. You can find these through Army channels. They give all the details on the test, how to score, and how to prepare.
Online Training Resources
There are online training sites for Soldiers to get workout plans and tips. These sites offer customized training plans and track progress. This ensures Soldiers are ready for the test.
Contact Local Recruiters
Soldiers can also reach out to local recruiters for extra help. Recruiters can share info on the test, what documents you need, and more. They help make sure Soldiers are well-prepared for the test.