Understanding the Army Combat Fitness Test (ACFT)
The Acft is a novel physical fitness test that has replaced the former Army Physical Fitness Test (APFT). The Acft is aimed at assessing a soldier’s combat readiness and physical abilities by testing their strength, endurance, and mobility.
The Acft comprises six events, namely the deadlift, standing power throw, hand-release push-ups, sprint-drag-carry, leg tuck, and a two-mile run. Each event is intended to test different aspects of a soldier’s physical readiness, with some events like the deadlift testing strength and the sprint-drag-carry testing endurance and agility.
Unlike the APFT, the Acft is graded on a point system, with a maximum of 600 points. Each event is worth a specific number of points, and a soldier must score at least 360 points overall to pass the test. Furthermore, there are minimum standards for each event that must be met to pass.
It’s important to note that the Acft standards differ by MOS (Military Occupational Specialty). This implies that different soldiers may have different minimum requirements to pass the test depending on their job within the Army. It’s crucial for soldiers to have an understanding of the standards for their specific MOS to properly prepare for the test.
In general, the Acft is a more comprehensive and strenuous test than the previous APFT. It’s intended to better evaluate a soldier’s physical abilities and combat readiness, and it’s crucial for soldiers to comprehend the test and its standards to properly prepare and maintain their physical fitness.
Exploring the Different ACFT Standards by MOS
Exploring the Various ACFT Criteria by MOS
The Army Combat Fitness Test (ACFT) is a comprehensive physical fitness assessment that evaluates a soldier’s physical preparedness in different areas such as muscular strength, endurance, and power. The ACFT criteria are established by the soldier’s Military Occupational Specialty (MOS).
Different MOS necessitate different levels of physical fitness, and the ACFT criteria reflect this fact. For instance, a soldier in a combat arms MOS will require a higher criterion in the strength and power events compared to a soldier in a non-combat arms MOS.
To examine the various ACFT criteria by MOS, you can use our ACFT Standards by MOS Calculator. This instrument enables you to choose your MOS and see the specific criteria for each event. You can also contrast the criteria between different MOS to observe the differences in physical fitness obligations.
Some MOS have higher standards in certain events than others. For example, soldiers in the Infantry MOS have a higher standard in the Leg Tuck event compared to soldiers in a Transportation MOS. Similarly, soldiers in the Artillery MOS have a higher standard in the Deadlift event compared to soldiers in a Medical MOS.
By exploring the various ACFT criteria by MOS, soldiers can better comprehend the physical fitness requirements for their job and strive to meet those criteria. This can assist with career growth and overall preparedness for their role in the Army.
Calculating Your ACFT Score
Calculating Your ACFT Score
To estimate your ACFT score, you must know the norms for your MOS (Military Occupational Specialty) and the outcomes of each event. Each event has a maximum score of 100 points, and the total possible score is 600 points.
Here’s how to compute your score:
1. Deadlift: Find your MOS standard and search for your corresponding weight. Multiply your weight by the standard and divide by 140. Round to the nearest whole number for your score.
2. Standing Power Throw: Your score is the distance in feet from the starting line to where the ball lands. Use the scorecard supplied by the Army to determine your score based on your distance.
3. Hand-Release Push-Up: Your score is the number of push-ups you complete in two minutes. Use the scorecard supplied by the Army to determine your score based on your number of push-ups.
4. Sprint-Drag-Carry: Your score is the time it takes you to complete the event. Use the scorecard supplied by the Army to determine your score based on your time.
5. Leg Tuck: Your score is the number of leg tucks you complete. Use the scorecard supplied by the Army to determine your score based on your number of leg tucks.
6. Two-Mile Run: Your score is the time it takes you to complete the run. Use the calculator supplied by the Army to determine your score based on your time.
Add up your scores from each event to get your total ACFT score. Remember, each MOS has different standards, so make sure to refer to the Army’s scorecard for your specific MOS.
Preparing for the ACFT
Preparing for the ACFT
The new Acft Test has been introduced as a more comprehensive and challenging test of fitness for soldiers. While the old Army Physical Fitness Test (APFT) focused primarily on push-ups, sit-ups, and a timed 2-mile run, the Acft includes six events that measure different aspects of physical fitness.
As a soldier, it is essential to prepare for the Acft to ensure you are capable of meeting the standards for your MOS. Here are some tips for preparing for the Acft:
1. Understand the standards for your MOS: Each MOS has different standards for the Acft. Make sure you know what your specific requirements are and focus your training on meeting those standards.
2. Train for each event: The Acft includes six events: the deadlift, standing power throw, hand-release push-up, sprint-drag-carry, leg tuck, and 2-mile run. Train specifically for each event to improve your performance.
3. Focus on functional fitness: The Acft is designed to measure functional fitness, which means training movements that mimic what you would do in real-life situations. Incorporate exercises like squats, lunges, and kettlebell swings into your training.
4. Build endurance: The Acft requires a higher level of endurance than the APFT. Incorporate cardio workouts like running, biking, or swimming into your training to improve your endurance.
5. Get enough rest and recovery: Adequate rest and recovery are essential for improving your fitness and preventing injury. Make sure you are getting enough sleep and taking rest days as needed.
By adhering to these tips and consistently training for the Acft, you can make sure you are prepared to meet the standards for your MOS and perform at your best during the test.
The Future of Fitness Testing in the U.S. Army
The future of fitness testing in the U.S. Army is constantly evolving, and the implementation of the ACFT is just the outset. As technology advances and new research is conducted, the Army will continue to refine and upgrade its fitness testing standards.
One area of potential growth is in the use of wearable technology and data analytics to trace and analyze soldiers’ physical performance. This could include devices that monitor heart rate, oxygen levels, and other biometric data to provide real-time feedback on a soldier’s fitness level.
Another potential development is the integration of virtual reality and simulation training into the fitness testing process. This would allow soldiers to practice and improve their physical skills in a safe and controlled environment, potentially reducing the risk of injury during actual training and operations.
Overall, the future of fitness testing in the U.S. Army is focused on improving the readiness and performance of its soldiers. By utilizing the latest technology and scientific research, the Army can ensure that its soldiers are physically prepared for the challenges they may face in the field.