The Army Combat Fitness Test (ACFT) is not just another fitness assessment; it's a comprehensive measurement of a soldier's physical capability, designed specifically to evaluate the functional fitness necessary for the demands of modern warfare.
The Army Combat Fitness Test (ACFT) is not just another fitness assessment; it's a comprehensive measurement of a soldier's physical capability, designed specifically to evaluate the functional fitness necessary for the demands of modern warfare. From agility to strength, endurance to power, the ACFT pushes soldiers to their limits in ways that the previous standard, the Army Physical Fitness Test, did not.
The Rationale Behind the ACFT
The modern battlefield is unpredictable, requiring soldiers to be versatile in their physical abilities. Whether it's sprinting from cover to cover, dragging a wounded comrade to safety, or hoisting equipment over rough terrain, today's soldiers need a broad range of physical attributes. The ACFT is tailored to evaluate these essential capabilities, ensuring that every soldier is prepared for the demands they might face in combat.
Components of the ACFT
The ACFT comprises six events, each focusing on different aspects of physical fitness. These are:
- 3-Repetition Maximum Deadlift (MDL): This event assesses lower body strength. Soldiers are required to perform three consecutive deadlifts using a hex bar, aiming for the maximum weight they can handle. The weight range is from 140 to 340 pounds, depending on the individual.
- Standing Power Throw (SPT): Testing power and explosive ability, soldiers throw a 10-pound medicine ball over their heads and as far back as possible. This simulates tasks like using force to move gear or obstacles in the field.
- Hand-Release Push-Ups (HRP): An upgraded version of the standard push-up, the HRP adds a hand-release element to test upper body strength and endurance further.
- Sprint-Drag-Carry (SDC): As a five-part, timed event, the SDC challenges a soldier's speed, endurance, and strength. It consists of a 50-meter sprint, 50-meter sled drag, 50-meter lateral shuffle, 50-meter carry of two 40-pound kettlebells, and another 50-meter sprint.
- Leg Tuck (LTK): Targeting core strength, soldiers must hang from a pull-up bar and bring their knees to their elbows as many times as they can.
- 2-Mile Run (2MR): An assessment of aerobic capacity, this event requires soldiers to complete a 2-mile run as quickly as possible.
Scoring the ACFT
The ACFT uses a 100-point scale for each event, with 600 being a perfect score. While scoring varies slightly based on the soldier's occupation, age, and gender, every soldier must meet a minimum total score to pass, ensuring that they possess a baseline level of fitness relevant to combat situations.
Training for the ACFT
Given the diverse range of physical tasks in the ACFT, soldiers are encouraged to undertake a varied and comprehensive training regimen. This might include strength training, interval running, plyometrics, and functional movements that mirror real-world combat tasks.
The Future of Army Fitness
The introduction of the ACFT underscores the military's recognition of the evolving nature of warfare and the requisite physical demands placed on soldiers. It's more than just a test – it's a statement on the importance of holistic fitness, ensuring that soldiers are not just strong or just fast, but well-rounded warriors ready for any challenge.
In closing, the ACFT is a transformative step for the Army, bridging the gap between traditional fitness metrics and the unpredictable requirements of modern combat. As soldiers continue to train for and take the ACFT, the hope is that they will not only pass a test but also be genuinely combat-ready, ensuring the continued strength and resilience of our military forces.
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About the Author:
Cory McKane
Cory is a huge fan of fitness - and an even bigger fan of helping you with your fitness. He's started on his journey with WeStrive back in 2015 and has been building it ever since.
