The Army Combat Fitness Test (ACFT) has undergone significant changes, with the U.S. Army introducing the Army Fitness Test (AFT) to replace it. This shift aims to enhance soldier readiness, enforce gender-neutral standards, and eliminate outdated exercises.
Key Changes in the New Army Fitness Test
✅ Rebranding: The test is now called the Army Fitness Test (AFT), dropping “combat” from its name.
✅ Event Removal: The Standing Power Throw, often criticized for favoring taller soldiers, has been eliminated.
✅ New Scoring System: Combat-role soldiers must now achieve at least 60 points per event, with a total minimum score of 350.
✅ Gender-Neutral Standards: The test applies uniform benchmarks for men and women in 21 combat military occupational specialties (MOS), including infantry, Special Forces, and artillery.
✅ Implementation Timeline: The new test will roll out in phases starting June 1, 2025, with full implementation by January 1, 2026, for active-duty soldiers and June 1, 2026, for Reserve and National Guard.
Why the Change?
The previous ACFT, launched in 2022, faced criticism for its low passing thresholds—soldiers could pass by completing just 10 push-ups and running two miles in 22 minutes. The new AFT aims to increase warfighting readiness and ensure higher fitness standards across combat roles.
The New Army Fitness Test: A Game Changer in Military Readiness
The Army Fitness Test (AFT) is set to revolutionize military training, replacing the former Army Combat Fitness Test (ACFT). With stricter gender-neutral standards and higher fitness requirements, the new test aims to enhance soldier readiness across all combat roles.
Key Changes and Enhancements
The U.S. Army has made significant updates to ensure the test aligns with modern warfare demands. Some major changes include:
✅ Renaming: The test is now called the Army Fitness Test (AFT), eliminating “combat” to emphasize overall military preparedness.
✅ Event Removal: The Standing Power Throw, which benefited taller soldiers, has been removed.
✅ Uniform Standards: The new test establishes equal benchmarks for men and women in 21 military occupational specialties (MOS) such as infantry, Special Forces, and artillery.
✅ New Scoring System: Combat soldiers must now achieve 60 points per event, totaling a minimum score of 350 to qualify.
Why the Change?
The previous ACFT had low passing thresholds, allowing soldiers to pass with 10 push-ups and a 22-minute two-mile run. The AFT raises the bar, ensuring that soldiers meet higher fitness expectations to improve overall combat effectiveness.
Components of the New AFT
The updated fitness test consists of five events, each designed to evaluate essential battlefield skills:
1️⃣ Three-rep max deadlift – Strengthens lower-body muscles for lifting heavy gear.
2️⃣ Hand-release push-ups with arm extension – Enhances upper-body endurance.
3️⃣ Sprint-drag-carry – Tests speed, agility, and strength required for emergency scenarios.
4️⃣ Plank – Focuses on core endurance for stability and resilience.
5️⃣ Two-mile run – Measures cardiovascular endurance necessary for sustained activity.
Impact on Soldiers
For female soldiers aspiring to combat roles, the new test raises the fitness threshold significantly. Previously, a 17 to 21-year-old woman could pass by lifting 120 pounds, but now she must lift 140 pounds. Similarly, the sprint-drag-carry event has tightened its time limit from 3 minutes 15 seconds to 2 minutes 28 seconds.
Challenges and Implementation
The AFT rollout begins on June 1, 2025, with full implementation expected by January 1, 2026, for active-duty soldiers and June 1, 2026, for Reserve and National Guard members.
Some concerns remain regarding recruitment and retention, as stricter physical demands may deter potential candidates. However, military officials emphasize that standards will not be lowered—ensuring soldiers are always prepared for battle.
Final Thoughts
The Army Fitness Test is more than just an update—it’s a commitment to excellence in military performance. By reinforcing combat readiness, endurance, and resilience, the AFT promises a stronger, faster, and more capable fighting force ready to tackle challenges of modern warfare.
What’s in the New AFT?
The AFT consists of five events:
🔹 Three-rep max deadlift
🔹 Hand-release push-ups with arm extension
🔹 Sprint-drag-carry
🔹 Plank
🔹 Two-mile run
Impact on Soldiers
For women entering combat positions, the new standards mark a substantial increase in expectations. For example, under the previous test, a 17 to 21-year-old woman could pass by lifting 120 pounds—now, she must lift 140 pounds. Similarly, the sprint-drag-carry time has tightened from 3 minutes and 15 seconds to 2 minutes and 28 seconds.
Final Thoughts
The Army Fitness Test represents a major shift in military fitness standards, ensuring combat readiness and equal expectations for all soldiers. While some concerns remain about its impact on recruitment and retention, the Army remains firm: “No standard will be lowered.”
Would you like me to refine this further or add more details? 🚀
