Introduction to the ACFT New Standards
The Army Combat Fitness Test (ACFT) is the recent standard physical fitness test for soldiers in the United States Army. The ACFT replaces the previous Army Physical Fitness Test (APFT) which had been in use for around three decades. The new test was officially implemented in October 2020 and is intended to better measure a soldier’s overall physical fitness and combat readiness.
The ACFT consists of six events: the deadlift, standing power throw, hand-release push-up, sprint-drag-carry, leg tuck, and two-mile run. Each event is intended to test different aspects of a soldier’s physical abilities including strength, power, agility, and endurance. The test is gender- and age-neutral, meaning that all soldiers, regardless of gender or age, are predicted to meet the same standards.
The new standards for the ACFT are higher than those of the APFT, reflecting the Army’s focus on physical fitness as a crucial component of combat readiness. Soldiers must now score at least 60 points in each event to pass the test, with a minimum overall score of 360. This represents a significant increase from the previous standard of 180 points on the APFT.
The ACFT has been designed to be a more accurate reflection of the physical demands that soldiers may face in combat situations. By ensuring that all soldiers meet these higher standards, the Army is better able to ensure that its soldiers are ready to face whatever challenges may come their way.
Overview of the ACFT Test Events
The Army Combat Fitness Test (ACFT) is a recent physical fitness assessment that replaces the previous Army Physical Fitness Test (APFT). The ACFT aims to better gauge an individual’s general physical fitness and readiness for combat. The test comprises six events that appraise varying aspects of physical fitness, such as muscular strength, endurance, power, agility, and speed.
The six events of the ACFT are as follows:
1. Deadlift: This event assesses lower body strength and resembles a customary deadlift, with the weight initiating on the ground and being lifted to a standing position.
2. Standing Power Throw: This event assesses upper body power and necessitates the participant to throw a 10-pound medicine ball as far as feasible.
3. Hand-Release Push-Up: This event assesses upper body endurance and necessitates the participant to execute a push-up where they release their hands from the ground at the bottom of the movement.
4. Sprint-Drag-Carry: This event assesses speed, agility, and endurance and necessitates the participant to finish a sequence of sprints, drags, and carries.
5. Leg Tuck: This event assesses core strength and necessitates the participant to hang from a bar and execute a knee-to-elbow movement.
6. 2-Mile Run: This event assesses cardiovascular endurance and necessitates the participant to complete a 2-mile run as quickly as possible.
Overall, the ACFT is intended to be a more inclusive assessment of an individual’s physical fitness and readiness for combat. It is crucial for soldiers to train precisely for each event to perform their best on the test.
Scoring and Grading for the ACFT
Acft Standards Scoring and Grading for the ACFT
The ACFT embodies a scoring and grading system that is based on a soldier’s performance in each of the six events. The scoring system is intended to provide an accurate evaluation of a soldier’s physical fitness and readiness for military duties. The maximum score for each event is 100, and the minimum passing score for each event is 60.
The grading system is based on a soldier’s overall performance in all six events. Soldiers will receive one of four grades: “High,” “Moderate,” “Low,” or “Unsatisfactory.” Soldiers who score 550 or above will receive a “High” grade, indicating that they have demonstrated exceptional physical fitness and readiness. Soldiers who score between 450 and 539 will receive a “Moderate” grade, indicating that they have demonstrated satisfactory physical fitness and readiness. Soldiers who score between 360 and 449 will receive a “Low” grade, indicating that they have demonstrated marginal physical fitness and readiness. Soldiers who score below 360 will receive an “Unsatisfactory” grade, indicating that they have demonstrated inadequate physical fitness and readiness.
It is important to note that soldiers must achieve a minimum passing score of 360 in order to pass the ACFT. Soldiers who fail to obtain a passing score will be required to participate in remedial training and will be given the opportunity to retake the test.
In conclusion, the scoring and grading system for the ACFT is intended to provide an accurate evaluation of a soldier’s physical fitness and readiness for military duties. By setting a high standard for physical fitness, the ACFT ensures that soldiers are prepared to meet the demands of their duties and maintain the high level of readiness required by the military.
Training and Preparation for the ACFT
As the Army prepares to transition to the new ACFT standards, it is crucial for soldiers to undergo proper training and preparation to ensure they are ready to meet the demands of the test. Here are some key areas to focus on during training:
1. Physical Conditioning: The ACFT places a greater emphasis on muscular strength and endurance compared to the old APFT. Soldiers should focus on building their strength, particularly in the core, legs, and upper body. This can be attained through weightlifting, calisthenics, and other strength training exercises.
2. Endurance Training: The ACFT also requires a high level of aerobic and anaerobic endurance. Soldiers should incorporate cardio exercises such as running, cycling, or rowing into their training regimen to build up their endurance.
3. Skill Development: The ACFT includes several events that require specific skills, such as the standing power throw and the leg tuck. Soldiers should practice these events regularly to improve their technique and build their confidence.
4. Nutrition and Hydration: Proper nutrition and hydration are essential for peak performance on the ACFT. Soldiers should aim to eat a balanced diet that includes plenty of protein, carbohydrates, and healthy fats. They should also drink ample water to stay hydrated.
5. Mental Preparation: The ACFT can be a challenging and stressful experience, and soldiers should be mentally prepared to tackle it. They should focus on developing a positive mindset, envisioning success, and managing their stress levels through techniques like deep breathing and meditation.
Overall, proper training and preparation are crucial for success on the ACFT. By focusing on these key areas, soldiers can build the strength, endurance, skills, and mindset needed to excel on the new standards.
Implementation of the ACFT in the Army Fitness Program
The Army Acft Fitness Test has been introduced as the New Standard Fitness Test for Soldiers in the U.S. Army. The Acft has Replaced the Previously Used Army Physical Fitness Test (APFT) and is being Implemented across the Army. The New Test is Designed to Better Assess Soldier Readiness and Overall Fitness Levels, with an Increased Focus on Functional Fitness.
The Implementation of the Acft has been a Gradual Process, with the Army providing Training and Resources for Soldiers to Prepare for the New Test. The Test is Divided into Six Events, including the Deadlift, Standing Power Throw, Hand-Release Push-Ups, Sprint-Drag-Carry, Leg Tuck, and a Two-Mile Run. Soldiers Must Complete each Event to a Specific Standard in Order to Pass the Overall Test.
To Ensure Successful Implementation, the Army has Provided Training and Resources for Soldiers to Prepare for the Acft. This Includes Online Training Modules, Physical Training Sessions, and Access to Equipment Needed for the Test. The Army has also Worked to Ensure that Testing Sites are Equipped with the Necessary Equipment and Personnel to Administer the Test.
The Implementation of the Acft in the Army Fitness Program has been Met with some Challenges, Particularly with Regards to the Availability of Equipment and Resources. However, the Army is Committed to Ensuring that Soldiers have the Resources they Need to be Successful in the New Fitness Test.
Overall, the Implementation of the Acft in the Army Fitness Program Represents a Significant Shift in How the Army Assesses Soldier Readiness and Fitness. With a Greater Focus on Functional Fitness, the New Test is Designed to Better Prepare Soldiers for the Demands of Combat and Overall Physical Readiness. While there may be some Challenges in the Implementation Process, the Army is Committed to Ensuring that Soldiers have the Resources and Support they Need to Succeed in the New Fitness Test.