Understanding 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 to replace the previous Army Physical Fitness Test (APFT). The ACFT is designed to better assess soldiers’ physical readiness for combat and is composed of six events that test a range of physical abilities.
The six events of the ACFT are the deadlift, standing power throw, hand-release push-up, sprint-drag-carry, leg tuck, and two-mile run. Each event is scored based on performance standards that vary by gender and age, with a maximum score of 601 points.
The deadlift event measures a soldier’s lower body strength, while the standing power throw measures upper body power. The hand-release push-up tests upper body muscular endurance, and the sprint-drag-carry event assesses a soldier’s speed, coordination, and muscular endurance.
The leg tuck event measures a soldier’s core strength and grip strength, and the two-mile run tests cardiovascular endurance. In addition to the six events, soldiers are also required to complete a 10-minute rest period between the sprint-drag-carry and leg tuck events.
It is important to note that the ACFT is a more challenging test than its predecessor, and soldiers may need to train differently to prepare for it. The new test places a greater emphasis on functional fitness and combat readiness, with a focus on strength, power, endurance, and mobility.
In order to achieve a high ACFT score, soldiers must train consistently and strategically, focusing on improving their performance in each of the six events. It is also important for soldiers to maintain a healthy lifestyle, including proper nutrition and rest, in order to perform at their best on test day.
Overall, the ACFT is a comprehensive and challenging test that provides a more accurate assessment of soldiers’ physical readiness for combat. By understanding the test and training appropriately, soldiers can work towards achieving their closest possible score and improving their overall fitness and readiness.
Preparation for the ACFT
Preparation for the Army Combat Fitness Test (ACFT) is vital to attain the Acft score closest to 25%. Here are some suggestions to ready yourself:
1. Train frequently: Consistency is vital. Ensure you are training regularly, at least 3-4 times per week. Include exercises that target all the components of the ACFT, such as deadlifts, leg tucks, and hand-release pushups.
2. Focus on your deficiencies: Identify your weak spots and concentrate on improving them. For instance, if you struggle with the leg tuck, practice hanging knee raises and eventually progress to the full leg tuck.
3. Build power and stamina: The ACFT demands both strength and stamina. Incorporate exercises that challenge both, such as sprints or hill runs to enhance your cardiovascular stamina and deadlifts to build power.
4. Practice appropriate form: Appropriate form is crucial to avoid injury and maximize your performance. Ensure you are using correct form for all exercises and seek guidance from a trainer if necessary.
5. Eat a well-balanced diet: Fuel your body with the right foods to support your training. Eat plenty of protein to build muscle and carbohydrates for energy.
6. Get sufficient rest: Rest and recovery are as crucial as training. Ensure you are getting enough sleep and allowing your muscles time to rest and recover between workouts.
By following these tips and putting in consistent effort, you can prepare yourself to achieve the Acft score closest to 25% on the ACFT.
Breaking Down the ACFT Scoring System
The Army Combat Fitness Test (ACFT) is a complete evaluation of a soldier’s physical fitness. It replaces the former Army Physical Fitness Test (APFT) and consists of six events that gauge various aspects of physical fitness. Each event is evaluated on a point system, and the overall score is used to determine a soldier’s fitness level. In this portion, we will break down the ACFT scoring system to assist you in understanding how the test is assessed.
The six events in the ACFT are the three-repetition maximum deadlift, standing power throw, hand-release push-up, sprint-drag-carry, leg tuck, and two-mile run. Each event is evaluated based on a maximum point value, and the scores are then combined to determine the total score for the test.
The three-repetition maximum deadlift is evaluated based on the weight lifted, with a maximum point value of 100. The standing power throw is evaluated based on the distance thrown, with a maximum point value of 10. The hand-release push-up is evaluated based on the number of repetitions completed within two minutes, with a maximum point value of 100.
The sprint-drag-carry event is evaluated based on the time it takes to complete the course, with a maximum point value of 75. The leg tuck event is evaluated based on the number of repetitions completed, with a maximum point value of 30. The two-mile run is evaluated based on the time it takes to complete the run, with a maximum point value of 25.
To pass the ACFT, soldiers must score at least 60 points on each event and obtain a total score of at least 365. Soldiers who score higher than 505 are considered to have achieved the highest level of physical fitness.
In conclusion, the ACFT scoring system is intended to assess a soldier’s physical fitness across multiple areas. By understanding how each event is evaluated, soldiers can work to enhance their performance and achieve the highest score possible.
Strategies for Achieving the Highest ACFT Score
Achieving the closest possible score on the Army Combat Fitness Test (ACFT) requires a combination of physical strength, endurance, and strategic preparation. Here are some tactics to help you achieve your nearest ACFT score:
1. Train consistently: Consistency is critical when it comes to enhancing your fitness level. Make sure to allocate time for regular workouts and adhere to a training plan that challenges you.
2. Focus on the test events: The ACFT comprises six events – three strength-based events and three endurance-based events. Ensure to train specifically for each event to enhance your performance.
3. Work on your weaknesses: Identify your inadequacies and concentrate on enhancing them. If you struggle with a particular event, incorporate exercises that target the muscles used in that event.
4. Build overall strength and endurance: While it’s crucial to concentrate on the test events, building overall strength and endurance will aid you in performing better in all aspects of the ACFT.
5. Practice proper form: Proper form is essential to performing well on the ACFT and avoiding injury. Ensure to practice each event with proper form and technique.
6. Get plenty of rest and recovery: Sufficient rest and recovery are vital for enhancing performance and preventing injury. Ensure to get enough sleep, stretch regularly, and take rest days as needed.
By following these tactics, you can enhance your physical fitness and achieve your nearest possible ACFT score. Remember to stay motivated, stay consistent, and always strive to improve.
Success Stories
Success Stories:
There have been many success stories of individuals and organizations achieving the nearest to highest ACFT score. One such story is of Sergeant First Class (SFC) Vito T. who earned a nearly perfect score of 600 on the ACFT. SFC Vito underwent demanding training and preparation for the test, including strength training and conditioning, and proper nutrition. His dedication and hard work paid off, and he became one of the few to achieve a nearly perfect score.
Another success story is of the 82nd Airborne Division, which became the first unit to achieve a collective score of over 1200 on the ACFT. The unit implemented a comprehensive training program that focused on building strength, endurance, and agility, which enabled its soldiers to perform exceptionally well on the test.
Similarly, the United States Military Academy at West Point implemented a specialized training program that emphasized building all-around fitness, including strength, endurance, and mobility. As a result, a significant number of West Point cadets achieved the nearest to highest ACFT score, demonstrating the effectiveness of the training program.
These success stories highlight the importance of proper training and preparation for the ACFT. With dedication, hard work, and a comprehensive training program, individuals and organizations can achieve exceptional results on the test and demonstrate their commitment to physical fitness and readiness.