Overview of the Army Combat Fitness Test (ACFT)
The Army Combat Fitness Test (ACFT) is a physical fitness test that was introduced by the United States Army in 2019. The ACFT was planned to swap the former Army Physical Fitness Test (APFT) and is believed to be a more extensive and demanding assessment of a soldier’s physical readiness. The ACFT consists of six events that are planned to test a soldier’s strength, endurance, and agility. These events include a three-repetition maximum deadlift, a standing power throw, hand-release push-ups, a sprint-drag-carry, a leg tuck, and a two-mile run. The ACFT is gender and age neutral, and all soldiers are required to pass the test in order to maintain their physical readiness and readiness for combat. The ACFT is seen as a critical component in ensuring that soldiers are physically fit for combat and can perform their duties effectively in any environment.
ACFT Scoring and Standards
Acft Scoring and Standards
The Army Combat Fitness Test (Acft) is a new test formulated to better measure soldiers’ physical readiness for combat. Unlike the prior Army Physical Fitness Test (APFT), the Acft is a more comprehensive and challenging test that includes six events: the deadlift, standing power throw, hand-release push-up, sprint/drag/carry, leg tuck, and two-mile run.
In order to pass the Acft, soldiers must meet the minimum standards for each event, which are grounded on their gender and age. The minimum standards for each event are as follows:
– Deadlift: 143 pounds for women and 178 pounds for men
– Standing power throw: 4.4 meters for women and 12.4 meters for men
– Hand-release push-up: 11 for women and 19 for men
– Sprint/drag/carry: 3 minutes and 37 seconds for women and 2 minutes and 43 seconds for men
– Leg tuck: 1 repetition for women and 4 repetitions for men
– Two-mile run: 21 minutes and 10 seconds for women and 15 minutes and 50 seconds for men
In addition to meeting the minimum standards for each event, soldiers will also be scored on a point system. The maximum score for each event is 101 points, for a total of 606 points. Soldiers who score above 364 points will receive a passing score.
The Acft scoring system is formulated to incentivize soldiers to enhance their performance in each event, as well as overall. Soldiers who score above 503 points will receive the Army Physical Fitness Badge, while soldiers who score above 606 points will receive the Army Physical Fitness Badge with Distinction.
Overall, the Acft is a more stringent and comprehensive test than the prior APFT, and is formulated to better prepare soldiers for the physical demands of combat. By meeting the minimum standards and striving for higher scores, soldiers can demonstrate their readiness for any mission.
Training Tips for ACFT Success
Training Tips for ACFT Success
The Acft is a physically demanding test that requires soldiers to be in top physical condition. To ensure success on the Acft, soldiers should incorporate the following training tips into their workouts:
1. Train for all six events: The Acft consists of six events, each of which requires a different set of skills and physical abilities. To perform well on the test, soldiers should train for all six events, not just the ones they feel comfortable with.
2. Focus on functional fitness: The Acft is designed to measure a soldier’s ability to perform real-world tasks, such as lifting and carrying heavy objects. To prepare for the test, soldiers should focus on functional fitness exercises that mimic the movements required in the Acft.
3. Incorporate strength training: The Acft requires soldiers to have a high level of strength, particularly in their upper body and core. To build strength, soldiers should incorporate strength training exercises into their workouts, such as bench presses, pull-ups, and squats.
4. Train for endurance: The Acft also requires soldiers to have a high level of endurance, particularly in the running and rowing events. To improve endurance, soldiers should incorporate cardio exercises into their workouts, such as running, cycling, and rowing.
5. Practice proper form: Proper form is essential for performing well on the Acft and avoiding injury. Soldiers should practice proper form for each event and seek guidance from a qualified trainer if necessary.
By incorporating these training tips into their workouts, soldiers can improve their physical fitness and increase their chances of success on the Acft.
Benefits of the ACFT for Army Personnel
The Army Combat Fitness Test (ACFT) has brought about a multitude of benefits for Army personnel. First and foremost, the ACFT has placed a greater emphasis on overall physical fitness and readiness. The test assesses a wider range of physical abilities than its predecessor, the Army Physical Fitness Test (APFT), and is more closely aligned with the physical demands of combat situations.
The ACFT also offers a more accurate assessment of an individual’s physical capabilities. Unlike the APFT, which only tested for endurance and muscular strength, the ACFT includes tests for power, agility, and coordination. This allows for a more well-rounded assessment of a soldier’s physical fitness, and can assist in identifying areas where they may require improvement.
Furthermore, the ACFT includes a greater variety of exercises, which can make training more interesting and engaging for soldiers. The test also provides more opportunities for soldiers to work together and support each other in their fitness goals, fostering a sense of unity and camaraderie.
Overall, the ACFT has been a positive change for Army personnel, promoting physical fitness, readiness, and teamwork. By prioritizing the health and fitness of its soldiers, the Army can ensure that they are prepared for any challenge that may come their way.
Implementation Timeline and Future Developments of the ACFT
Implementation Timeline and Future Developments of the ACFT
The implementation of Acft began in October 2020, and it is now the official physical fitness test for all soldiers. The Acft replaces the Army Physical Fitness Test (APFT), which had been in use for over 40 years.
The Acft consists of six events: the deadlift, standing power throw, hand-release push-up, sprint-drag-carry, leg tuck, and two-mile run. The test aims to better reflect the physical demands of combat, and it is more comprehensive and challenging than the APFT.
Since its implementation, the Acft has undergone several changes and updates. In March 2021, the Army announced that it would be implementing a new scoring system for the test. The new system would take into account a soldier’s age, gender, and MOS to more accurately assess their physical fitness.
In addition to the new scoring system, the Army has also made adjustments to the events themselves. For example, the leg tuck event was modified to allow soldiers to perform a two-minute plank instead, and the hand-release push-up event was changed to a standard push-up.
Looking to the future, the Army has plans to continue to improve and refine the Acft. One area of focus is technology. The Army is exploring the use of wearable devices and other technology to more accurately measure a soldier’s physical fitness and track their progress over time.
The Army is also working to ensure that all soldiers have access to the resources and training they need to prepare for the Acft. This includes providing guidance on training programs and nutrition, as well as ensuring that soldiers have access to the equipment they need to properly train for the test.
Overall, the implementation of the Acft represents a significant shift in the Army’s approach to physical fitness. By prioritizing comprehensive and challenging fitness testing, the Army is better preparing soldiers for the physical demands of combat and ensuring that they are physically and mentally ready for whatever challenges they may face in the field.