New Army Combat Fitness Test Requirements for Men and Women

The U.S. Army has officially transitioned from the Army Combat Fitness Test (ACFT) to the new Army Fitness Test (AFT) as of October 1, 2024. This significant change marks a shift in how the military evaluates soldiers’ physical readiness. The update introduces gender-specific standards, a modified scoring system, and different test events. These changes will impact thousands of service members across all Army components.

The Evolution of Army Fitness Testing

For decades, the Army Physical Fitness Test (APFT) was the standard. It focused on push-ups, sit-ups, and a two-mile run. In 2019, the Army introduced the ACFT as a more comprehensive assessment of combat readiness. However, after extensive review and testing, military leaders have now implemented the AFT to better balance combat readiness with fair assessment standards.

The new AFT represents a middle ground between the old APFT and the more recent ACFT. It aims to maintain high fitness standards while addressing concerns about gender neutrality and implementation challenges that arose with the ACFT.

Key Changes in the New Army Fitness Test

Gender-Specific Standards Return

Perhaps the most notable change is the return to gender-specific standards. The ACFT initially used gender-neutral scoring, which drew criticism for creating potential barriers for female soldiers. The new AFT acknowledges physiological differences between men and women by implementing separate scoring tables.

For example, male soldiers in the 17-21 age group must complete 30 hand-release push-ups for a minimum passing score, while female soldiers in the same age group need 10 to pass. Similarly, the plank standards differ with men needing to hold for 1 minute and 40 seconds versus 1 minute and 20 seconds for women to achieve the minimum score.

New Test Events and Structure

The AFT retains three events from the ACFT while eliminating others. The test now includes:

• Hand-release push-ups (HRP): Measures upper body strength and endurance
• Plank: Evaluates core strength and stability
• Two-mile run: Tests aerobic endurance and cardiovascular fitness

Gone are the more equipment-intensive events like the three-repetition maximum deadlift, standing power throw, and sprint-drag-carry. These changes make the test more accessible and easier to administer across all Army facilities.

Revised Scoring System

The AFT uses a 100-point system with each event worth a maximum of 100 points. Soldiers must score at least 60 points in each event to pass. Additionally, they need a cumulative score of at least 180 points across all three events.

The scoring tables factor in both gender and age groups, creating a more nuanced evaluation system. The Army has established six age categories: 17-21, 22-26, 27-31, 32-36, 37-41, and 42+.

Specific Standards for Men and Women

Hand-Release Push-Up Requirements

The hand-release push-up demands proper form and complete range of motion. Soldiers must lower their chest to the ground, lift their hands briefly, then return to the starting position. The gender-specific standards are:

Men (Minimum Passing Standards by Age Group):

• 17-21: 30 repetitions
• 22-26: 28 repetitions
• 27-31: 25 repetitions
• 32-36: 20 repetitions
• 37-41: 18 repetitions
• 42+: 16 repetitions

Women (Minimum Passing Standards by Age Group):

• 17-21: 10 repetitions
• 22-26: 9 repetitions
• 27-31: 8 repetitions
• 32-36: 7 repetitions
• 37-41: 6 repetitions
• 42+: 5 repetitions

Plank Requirements

The plank tests core endurance and stability. Soldiers must maintain proper form with elbows directly beneath shoulders, body straight from head to heels, and no sagging or piking. The minimum requirements are:

Men (Minimum Passing Times by Age Group):

• 17-21: 1 minute, 40 seconds
• 22-26: 1 minute, 30 seconds
• 27-31: 1 minute, 25 seconds
• 32-36: 1 minute, 20 seconds
• 37-41: 1 minute, 15 seconds
• 42+: 1 minute, 10 seconds

Women (Minimum Passing Times by Age Group):

• 17-21: 1 minute, 20 seconds
• 22-26: 1 minute, 15 seconds
• 27-31: 1 minute, 10 seconds
• 32-36: 1 minute, 5 seconds
• 37-41: 1 minute
• 42+: 55 seconds

Two-Mile Run Standards

The two-mile run remains a cornerstone of Army fitness testing. Soldiers complete the distance on a measured course as quickly as possible. The minimum passing times are:

Men (Minimum Passing Times by Age Group):

• 17-21: 18:00 minutes
• 22-26: 18:30 minutes
• 27-31: 19:00 minutes
• 32-36: 19:30 minutes
• 37-41: 20:00 minutes
• 42+: 20:30 minutes

Women (Minimum Passing Times by Age Group):

• 17-21: 21:00 minutes
• 22-26: 21:30 minutes
• 27-31: 22:00 minutes
• 32-36: 22:30 minutes
• 37-41: 23:00 minutes
• 42+: 23:30 minutes

The Reasoning Behind the Changes

The Army’s decision to implement these changes stems from several factors. First, studies conducted by the RAND Corporation showed that the gender-neutral ACFT created disparities in pass rates between male and female soldiers.

Additionally, the previous test’s equipment requirements created logistical challenges for many units, especially in the National Guard and Army Reserve. The new AFT requires minimal equipment, making it easier to administer in varied locations.

Lieutenant General Douglas Stitt, the Army’s Deputy Chief of Staff for Personnel, explained that the new test “balances the need for physically fit soldiers with achievable standards across the force.” He emphasized that physical fitness remains crucial for combat readiness, but the assessment should be fair and practical.

Implementation Timeline and Transition Period

The Army has established a clear timeline for implementing the AFT:

• October 1, 2024: Official start date for the AFT
• October 2024 – September 2025: Transition period where soldiers can take either the ACFT or AFT
• October 1, 2025: AFT becomes the only authorized fitness test for record

During the transition year, soldiers and units have flexibility to adjust to the new standards. Many units are already conducting diagnostic AFTs to familiarize personnel with the requirements.

Training Recommendations for the New AFT

Soldiers preparing for the AFT should focus on specific training approaches for each event:

Hand-Release Push-Up Training

To improve hand-release push-up performance, consider these training methods:

• Perform push-up variations including standard, wide, diamond, and incline
• Include chest-strengthening exercises like bench press and chest flies
• Practice hand-release push-ups at various tempos to build endurance
• Work on tricep strength with dips, extensions, and kickbacks

Plank Training

Building core endurance for the plank requires consistent practice:

• Start with shorter plank holds and gradually increase duration
• Include plank variations like side planks and plank with arm/leg raises
• Strengthen the core with exercises like hollow holds and dead bugs
• Practice proper breathing techniques during isometric holds

Two-Mile Run Training

Improving run times requires a balanced approach:

• Follow a progressive running program with interval training
• Include longer, slower runs to build endurance foundation
• Add hill workouts and tempo runs to improve speed and strength
• Incorporate cross-training like swimming or cycling for recovery days

What This Means for Soldiers’ Careers

The AFT results significantly impact soldiers’ careers in several ways:

• Promotion potential: AFT scores are considered during promotion boards
• School eligibility: Many military schools require minimum AFT scores for admission
• Retention: Repeated failures can lead to separation from service
• Leadership positions: Higher scores often correlate with leadership opportunities

Given these implications, soldiers should prioritize AFT preparation as part of their professional development. Many units now incorporate specific AFT training into their physical readiness programs.

Reception and Feedback from the Force

Initial feedback on the AFT has been mixed. Many female soldiers welcome the return to gender-specific standards, viewing them as more equitable. Some combat arms soldiers express concern about reduced physical standards, while others appreciate the simplified test format.

Master Sergeant Jennifer Dawkins, a 15-year Army veteran, notes, “The new test feels more balanced. It still challenges us but acknowledges biological differences without lowering the bar for combat readiness.”

The Army plans to collect comprehensive data during the transition period and may make further adjustments based on findings and feedback from the field.

Conclusion: Adapting to the Future of Army Fitness

The shift from the ACFT to the AFT represents the Army’s commitment to both high fitness standards and fair assessment practices. The new gender-specific requirements acknowledge physiological differences while maintaining rigorous expectations for all soldiers.

As with any significant change, success will depend on proper implementation, thorough training, and clear communication throughout the force. Soldiers who focus on building balanced fitness—upper body strength, core stability, and aerobic endurance—will be well-positioned to excel on the new test.

The Army continues to evolve its fitness standards to meet the demands of modern warfare while supporting the diverse composition of today’s force. The AFT stands as the latest chapter in this ongoing development.

Take Action

Are you preparing for the new Army Fitness Test? Share your training tips or questions in the comments below. For those transitioning from the ACFT to the AFT, what challenges or benefits have you experienced? Join the conversation and help build a community of support for all soldiers working to meet these new standards.

References

• U.S. Army Official Website: Army Unveils New Fitness Test (AFT) to Replace ACFT in 2025
• Military.com: Army Physical Fitness Test Standards
• RAND Corporation: An Assessment of the Army Combat Fitness Test
• Army PRT: Complete Guide to Army Fitness Testing
• North Jersey: What’s New on Army Combat Fitness Test – AFT vs ACFT