Introduction to the Army Combat Fitness Test
The Army Combat Fitness Test (ACFT) is the new physical fitness test that has replaced the Army Physical Fitness Test (APFT) as the standard for measuring a soldier’s physical fitness. The ACFT is designed to better prepare soldiers for the physical demands of combat, as it is a more comprehensive and challenging test than the APFT. It is based on six events that measure a soldier’s strength, power, agility, and endurance. These events include the deadlift, standing power throw, hand-release push-up, sprint-drag-carry, leg tuck, and two-mile run. The ACFT is gender- and age-neutral, meaning that all soldiers are required to pass the same test regardless of their gender or age. The ACFT was introduced in 2019 and has become the new standard for physical fitness testing in the Army.
Changes in the ACFT Standards
The New Army Combat Fitness Test (ACFT) in the past few years has undergone significant Changes. These Changes were made to ensure that the test precisely measures a soldier’s overall fitness and readiness for combat. Some of the most notable Changes include:
1. Addition of the leg tuck: The leg tuck was added to the ACFT to measure a soldier’s upper body strength and core stability. This exercise requires soldiers to hang from a pull-up bar and bring their knees up to their elbows.
2. Elimination of the 3-repetition maximum deadlift: The 3-repetition maximum deadlift was removed from the ACFT due to concerns about its potential for injury. It was replaced with the standing power throw, which measures a soldier’s explosive power.
3. Modification of the sprint-drag-carry: The sprint-drag-carry event was modified to include a heavier sled and a longer distance for the sled drag. This Change was made to better simulate the physical demands of combat.
4. Changes to the scoring system: The scoring system for the ACFT has been modified to better reflect a soldier’s overall fitness level. The New scoring system includes a minimum passing score for each event and a maximum score for the entire test.
Overall, these Changes to the ACFT Standards are designed to ensure that soldiers are prepared for the physical demands of combat. By measuring a soldier’s overall fitness and readiness, the ACFT helps to ensure that our soldiers are equipped to face any challenge.
Overview of the ACFT Events
The Army Combat Fitness Test (ACFT) is a recent set of fitness standards that has been implemented to substitute the previous Army Physical Fitness Test (APFT). The ACFT comprises six events that evaluate a soldier’s physical readiness across various areas, including strength, endurance, and agility.
The first event is the three-repetition maximum deadlift, which requires lifting a weight from the ground to a standing position. The second event is the standing power throw, which gauges a soldier’s ability to throw a weighted ball over their head for distance. The third event is the hand-release push-up, which necessitates a soldier to lower their body to the ground, lift their hands off the ground, and then push themselves back up.
The fourth event is the sprint-drag-carry, which is a sequence of tasks that involve sprinting, dragging a weighted sled, carrying two 40-pound kettlebells, and then sprinting again. The fifth event is the leg tuck, which engages hanging from a bar and bringing the knees up to touch the elbows. The sixth and final event is the two-mile run, which measures a soldier’s endurance and cardiovascular fitness.
Taken together, these six events provide an overall measure of a soldier’s physical readiness and ability to perform a range of tasks that are crucial to their role in the Army. By executing the ACFT, the Army aims to ensure that all soldiers are fit and ready to meet the challenges of their duties, both in training and in combat situations.
Training for the ACFT
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Training for the ACFT
The Army Combat Fitness Test (ACFT) is a rigorous physical fitness test designed to evaluate soldiers’ readiness for combat. The test consists of six events, including the deadlift, standing power throw, hand-release push-ups, sprint-drag-carry, leg tuck, and two-mile run. To prepare for the ACFT, soldiers need to focus on developing strength, power, endurance, and agility.
The Army has provided a comprehensive training program to help soldiers prepare for the ACFT. The program includes a 10-week training plan that focuses on building power and endurance through a combination of resistance training, cardio, and core exercises. The training plan is divided into three phases, each of which has specific goals and workouts.
Phase one focuses on building a strong foundation of strength and endurance. It includes exercises such as deadlifts, squats, lunges, and push-ups. Soldiers are encouraged to perform these exercises with proper form and technique to prevent injury and maximize results.
Phase two focuses on developing power and explosiveness. This phase includes exercises such as the standing power throw, medicine ball toss, and box jump. Soldiers are encouraged to work on their explosiveness and power to improve their performance on the ACFT.
Phase three focuses on improving agility, speed, and endurance. This phase includes exercises such as the sprint-drag-carry, shuttle runs, and two-mile run. Soldiers are encouraged to improve their agility and speed to perform well on the ACFT.
In addition to the 10-week training plan, soldiers are encouraged to focus on proper nutrition, rest, and recovery. Adequate sleep, hydration, and nutrition are crucial to improving physical performance and preventing injuries.
Overall, training for the ACFT requires dedication, discipline, and hard work. Soldiers who follow the training plan and focus on developing their strength, power, endurance, and agility will be well-prepared to perform well on the ACFT and meet the Army’s physical fitness standards.
Benefits of the ACFT for Army Personnel
The new Army Combat Fitness Test (ACFT) brings multiple advantages for Army personnel. The test is designed to evaluate soldiers’ physical fitness levels and readiness for combat, which is vital for their overall performance in the field. Here are some of the critical benefits of the ACFT for Army personnel:
1. Enhanced Combat Readiness: The ACFT is a more inclusive and challenging test than its predecessor, the Army Physical Fitness Test (APFT). It includes six events that imitate real-life combat situations, such as dragging a casualty to safety, climbing a wall, and carrying heavy loads. By preparing for and passing the ACFT, soldiers can improve their overall physical fitness and be better equipped to handle the rigors of combat.
2. Reduced Risk of Injuries: The ACFT is designed to be more functional and less prone to causing injuries than the APFT. The new test emphasizes proper form and technique, which can help prevent injuries during training and in the field. By decreasing the risk of injuries, soldiers can stay healthy and ready for deployment.
3. Improved Health and Wellness: The ACFT prompts soldiers to concentrate on all facets of their physical fitness, including strength, endurance, and mobility. By preparing for the test, soldiers can improve their overall health and wellness, which can have a positive effect on their mental health as well.
4. Better Career Opportunities: The ACFT is now a mandatory requirement for all Army personnel, and passing the test is necessary for promotions and career advancement. By excelling in the ACFT, soldiers can demonstrate their readiness for combat and stand out as leaders in their units.
In conclusion, the new Army Combat Fitness Test brings several advantages for Army personnel. By preparing for and passing the ACFT, soldiers can enhance their combat readiness, decrease the risk of injuries, improve their health and wellness, and open up better career opportunities.