Army Apft Test Standards

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The U.S. Army has undergone significant changes in its physical fitness testing approach, transitioning from the Army Physical Fitness Test (APFT) to the Army Combat Fitness Test (ACFT), and now to the Army Fitness Test (AFT) in 2026. Soldiers must understand these evolving standards to maintain their readiness and career progression.

Evolution of Army Fitness Testing

The Army’s approach to physical fitness assessment has transformed dramatically over the decades. From 1980 to 2022, the Army Physical Fitness Test (APFT) was the standard, featuring three simple events:

• Push-ups (2 minutes)
• Sit-ups (2 minutes)
• Two-mile run

In April 2022, the Army Combat Fitness Test (ACFT) replaced the APFT, introducing a more comprehensive six-event assessment that better reflected combat readiness. However, the ACFT itself underwent significant modifications.

Current Army Fitness Test (AFT) Standards

As of June 1, 2025, the Army Fitness Test (AFT) became the official physical fitness test of record. The key changes include:

• Reduced to five events
• Return to age and gender-based scoring
• Specific standards for combat and non-combat roles

AFT Event Breakdown

The five events in the Army Fitness Test include:

1. Three Repetition Maximum Deadlift (MDL)

   • Lift a hex bar with weights three times
   • Tests lower body strength and combat-related lifting capabilities

2. Hand-Release Push-Up (HRP)

   • Push-ups with a complete hand release at the bottom
   • Evaluates upper body endurance and strength

3. Sprint-Drag-Carry (SDC)

   • A complex shuttle run simulating combat movement
   • Tests anaerobic power and muscular endurance

4. Plank (PLK)

   • Maintaining a proper plank position
   • Assesses core strength and muscular endurance

5. Two-Mile Run (2MR)

   • Running two miles for time
   • Measures aerobic endurance and overall cardiovascular fitness

Scoring and Performance Standards

Scoring requirements vary based on role and demographic:

• General Soldiers:

  • Minimum 60 points per event
  • Total score of 300 points
  • Maximum score of 500 points (100 points per event)

• Combat Roles (21 Military Occupational Specialties):

  • Minimum 60 points per event
  • Total score of 350 points
  • Gender-neutral, age-normed standards

🏋️ Note: Soldiers who cannot complete all events due to injury must earn a minimum of 70 points on events they are cleared to perform.

Implementation Timeline

• June 1, 2025: Phased implementation begins
• January 1, 2026: Active-duty standards take full effect
• June 1, 2026: Guard and Reserve standards implemented

Training Recommendations

To excel in the Army Fitness Test, soldiers should:

• Focus on comprehensive fitness
• Practice each event’s specific techniques
• Develop strength, endurance, and flexibility
• Utilize Army’s Holistic Health and Fitness (H2F) resources

The Army Fitness Test is more than just a test—it’s a critical measure of a soldier’s physical and mental readiness to serve and protect.