What is the Army Combat Fitness Test (ACFT)? Your Complete Guide to Military Fitness Standards

Understanding the ACFT: The Army’s New Fitness Test for Modern Soldiers

The Army Combat Fitness Test (ACFT) is how the U.S. Army checks if soldiers are fit and ready for duty. This fitness test measures if soldiers have the strength, speed, and endurance they need for real combat situations. The Army created the ACFT to replace the old fitness test (called APFT) because soldiers today need different skills than before.

The old Army fitness test only looked at three things: push-ups, sit-ups, and running two miles. But modern soldiers need much more than that. They carry heavy gear, climb over walls, drag injured teammates to safety, and work in tough conditions. The old test didn’t check if soldiers could do these important tasks.

How the ACFT Tests Six Key Areas of Military Fitness

The new Army Combat Fitness Test has six different exercises that check various parts of fitness. These six events make sure every soldier can handle the physical challenges they might face during military service. Each part of the test checks something different – like how strong you are, how fast you can move, or how long you can keep going.

When soldiers do well on their ACFT scores, it helps their military careers. Good fitness test results can lead to promotions, better job assignments, and more opportunities in the Army. Soldiers who struggle with the fitness test might find it harder to advance in their careers or get special training.

Why Physical Fitness Matters for Army Success and Safety

Being physically fit isn’t just about passing a test – it’s about staying safe and doing your job well in the Army. When soldiers are in good shape, they can protect themselves and their teammates better. They can carry their equipment longer, think clearly under stress, and recover faster from hard work.

Physical fitness also helps soldiers avoid injuries and stay healthy throughout their military service. Strong, fit soldiers are less likely to get hurt during training or missions, which keeps the whole unit safer and more effective.

To help soldiers track how they’re doing, there are tools available like fitness calculators that give instant feedback on ACFT performance. These resources help service members understand their current fitness level and see what areas they need to work on to improve their scores and readiness.

The History of Army Fitness Testing: From APFT to ACFT

Why the Army Changed Its Fitness Test

The old Army Physical Fitness Test (APFT) was used for many years, but it had problems. Many people said it didn’t really test all the fitness skills soldiers need. The APFT only checked three things, but soldiers in combat need to be strong in many different ways.

Army leaders knew they needed a better test. They wanted something that would really show if soldiers were ready for the tough physical work they do in the military. So in 2018, the Army started testing a new fitness program with thousands of soldiers to see how it worked.

How the ACFT Changed Over Time

The Army Combat Fitness Test didn’t start exactly like it is today. When they first tried it in 2018, they learned things from soldiers who took the test. Based on what soldiers said, the Army made changes to make the test better and safer.

One big change was switching from leg tucks to planks. Many soldiers were getting hurt trying to do leg tucks, and planks do a better job of testing how strong your core muscles are. The Army kept listening to feedback and making the test work better for everyone.

When the ACFT Became Official

By 2022, the Army decided the new fitness test was ready. They made the ACFT the official fitness test for all soldiers. But the Army is still making small changes to make sure the test works well for everyone. They plan to keep improving it through 2025.

The Army’s goal is simple: make sure every soldier is ready for real military challenges. Physical fitness is a key part of being a good soldier, so having the right fitness test is very important. During all these changes, fitness tracking tools and score calculators have helped soldiers understand how they’re doing and what they need to work on.

The Six ACFT Events: What Each Test Measures

The Army Combat Fitness Test has six different exercises that test various parts of your fitness. Each exercise is designed to copy movements soldiers do in real combat situations. Here’s what each part of the ACFT tests:

1. Maximum Deadlift (MDL): Testing Your Lifting Strength

The deadlift event checks how strong your legs, back, and grip are. Soldiers use a special hex-shaped bar to lift as much weight as possible three times. This test is like lifting heavy equipment or moving supplies that soldiers need to do in the field.

What it tests: Lower body strength, grip strength, and core stability

2. Standing Power Throw (SPT): Measuring Explosive Power

In this event, soldiers throw a 10-pound medicine ball backward over their head as far as they can. This movement is similar to throwing equipment over obstacles or putting gear on top of vehicles.

What it tests: Explosive power, coordination, and full-body strength

3. Hand-Release Push-Up (HRP): Upper Body Endurance Test

These push-ups are different from regular ones. Soldiers do as many as they can in two minutes, but they have to lift their hands off the ground at the bottom of each push-up. This makes sure soldiers use proper form and really work their upper body and core muscles.

What it tests: Upper body strength and core endurance

4. Sprint/Drag/Carry (SDC): The Ultimate Combat Movement Test

This is the most complex ACFT event. Soldiers do five different 50-meter movements: sprint, drag a sled, lateral shuffles, carry kettlebells, and sprint again. This event copies many movements soldiers do in combat, like moving quickly between cover, dragging injured teammates, and carrying equipment.

What it tests: Speed, strength, agility, and the ability to keep going when tired

5. Plank (PLK): Core Strength and Stability

Soldiers hold a plank position (like the top of a push-up but on their forearms) for as long as possible. A strong core helps prevent injuries and helps with almost every other physical activity soldiers do.

What it tests: Core strength and muscular endurance

6. Two-Mile Run (2MR): Cardiovascular Endurance

The final event is a timed two-mile run on a measured course. This tests how well your heart and lungs work during sustained exercise, which is important for long missions and operations.

What it tests: Cardiovascular fitness and mental toughness

Why Each ACFT Event Matters for Combat Readiness

Every part of the ACFT connects to real tasks soldiers do in the military. Strong performance on all six events shows that a soldier is ready for the physical demands of military service. Understanding how you perform on each event helps you know what areas to focus on in your training.

Fitness tracking tools and ACFT score calculators make it easy to see how you’re doing on each event and track your improvement over time.

How ACFT Scoring Works: Understanding Your Fitness Test Results

ACFT Point System: Simple Math for Clear Results

The Army Combat Fitness Test scoring system is easy to understand. Each of the six events can earn you between 0 and 100 points. This means the highest possible ACFT score is 600 points total (100 points × 6 events = 600 points).

To pass the ACFT, soldiers need to get at least 60 points on every single event. This adds up to a minimum passing score of 360 points total. The Army designed it this way so soldiers can’t skip working on one area of fitness – you have to be good at all six events to pass.

ACFT Performance Categories: Gold, Gray, and Black Standards

The Army groups ACFT scores into three main categories based on what kind of military job you have. These categories are called Gold, Gray, and Black, and they have different minimum score requirements:

Gold (Moderate Physical Demand Jobs):

• Total score needed: 360 points
• Minimum per event: 60 points
• Who needs this: Soldiers in jobs that don’t require heavy physical work

Gray (Significant Physical Demand Jobs):

• Total score needed: 440 points
• Minimum per event: 65 points
• Who needs this: Soldiers in jobs with moderate physical requirements

Black (Heavy Physical Demand Jobs):

• Total score needed: 440 points
• Minimum per event: 70 points
• Who needs this: Infantry, Special Forces, and other combat roles

Why Your ACFT Score Matters for Your Military Career

Your ACFT score does more than just show if you passed or failed. Army leaders use these scores to make decisions about:

• Promotions: Higher scores can help you get promoted faster
• Special assignments: Some military jobs require certain fitness levels
• Leadership opportunities: Good fitness scores show you take care of yourself
• Career advancement: Consistently high scores demonstrate reliability and discipline

Using ACFT Score Calculators to Track Your Progress

ACFT score calculators are helpful tools that turn your raw test results into your official points and show you exactly where you stand. These calculators help you:

• See your current fitness level across all events
• Understand what scores you need for your military job category
• Track improvements over time
• Plan your training to focus on weak areas
• Prepare for upcoming fitness tests

Whether you’re aiming for the minimum passing score or trying to max out all events, understanding how ACFT scoring works helps you set realistic goals and measure your progress effectively.

How to Use the Free ACFT Score Calculator: Step-by-Step Guide

Getting Started with ACFT Score Calculators

Free ACFT score calculators make it easy to figure out your fitness test results without doing complicated math. These online tools are designed to be simple and accurate, so any soldier can use them to check their performance quickly.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Using an ACFT Calculator

Here’s how to use most ACFT score calculators:

Step 1: Find and Access the Calculator Look for a reliable ACFT score calculator online or download a mobile app version. Many are available for free and work on phones, tablets, and computers.

Step 2: Enter Your Test Results Input your performance numbers for each of the six events:

• Maximum deadlift weight (in pounds)
• Power throw distance (in meters)
• Number of hand-release push-ups completed
• Plank hold time (in minutes and seconds)
• Sprint/drag/carry total time
• Two-mile run time

Step 3: Get Your Instant Results The calculator will automatically figure out your points for each event and give you your total ACFT score. You’ll see right away if you passed and which events might need more work.

Step 4: Review Your Performance Look at your results to understand your strengths and areas for improvement. The calculator will show you exactly where you stand compared to the minimum requirements.

Real ACFT Calculator Example

Here’s how it works in practice:

Let’s say a soldier enters these results:

• Deadlift: 250 pounds
• Power throw: 12 meters
• Push-ups: 40 repetitions
• Plank: 2 minutes
• Sprint/drag/carry: 2 minutes 30 seconds
• Two-mile run: 15 minutes

The ACFT calculator would instantly show the points earned for each event, the total score, and whether the soldier passed or failed. It would also highlight any events that need improvement to meet the minimum standards.

Why ACFT Score Calculators Are So Helpful

Using an ACFT calculator offers several benefits:

Quick and Accurate Results: No need to look up scoring charts or do math – get your results in seconds

Works Anywhere: Most calculators work on phones, so you can check scores at the gym, at home, or right after your test

Prevents Mistakes: Automated calculations eliminate human error in figuring out complex scoring

Saves Time: Instead of spending time with charts and calculations, focus on your training

Training Planning: Use results to plan your workout routine and focus on weak areas

Tips for Getting the Most from ACFT Calculators

To make the most of these tools, make sure you enter accurate numbers from your actual test performance. Keep track of your scores over time to see improvement, and use the results to guide your fitness training priorities.

ACFT score calculators are valuable tools that help soldiers understand their fitness levels and plan their training more effectively.

ACFT Minimum Passing Standards by Military Job (MOS Requirements)

Basic ACFT Passing Requirements for All Soldiers

Every soldier in the U.S. Army must meet minimum ACFT standards to stay in good standing. The basic requirement is simple: you need at least 60 points on each of the six events. This adds up to a total minimum score of 360 points to pass the Army Combat Fitness Test.

However, your specific military job determines whether you need to score higher than these basic minimums. The Army groups all military jobs (called MOS – Military Occupational Specialties) into three categories based on how physically demanding they are.

ACFT Standards by Physical Demand Category

The Army uses three categories to group different military jobs based on their physical requirements:

Heavy Physical Demand (Black Category)

• Minimum total score: 440 points
• Minimum per event: 70 points each
• Who needs this: Combat soldiers like Infantry (11B), Special Forces, Armor crews, and other direct combat roles
• Why higher standards: These jobs involve carrying heavy equipment, long foot patrols, and intense physical combat situations

Significant Physical Demand (Gray Category)

• Minimum total score: 440 points
• Minimum per event: 65 points each
• Who needs this: Military Police, logistics specialists, mechanics, communications personnel, and technical roles that require moderate physical work
• Why these standards: These jobs involve some physical demands but not as intense as direct combat roles

Moderate Physical Demand (Gold Category)

• Minimum total score: 360 points
• Minimum per event: 60 points each
• Who needs this: Administrative roles, finance specialists, human resources, and other support positions
• Why basic standards: These jobs focus more on mental skills and office work with minimal physical requirements

How to Find Your MOS Physical Demand Category

Your military job classification determines which category you fall into. When you enlist or get assigned to a new position, the Army will tell you what ACFT standards you need to meet. If you’re unsure about your requirements, check with your unit leadership or look up your specific MOS requirements.

What Happens if You Don’t Meet Your MOS Standards

Meeting your MOS-specific ACFT standards is important for several reasons:

• Job eligibility: You must meet standards to stay qualified for your military job
• Career progression: Higher scores often lead to better promotion opportunities
• Assignment opportunities: Some special assignments require specific fitness levels
• Military readiness: Standards ensure you can physically handle your job duties

Soldiers who don’t meet their MOS requirements may face counseling, additional training time, or in serious cases, job reassignment or separation from the Army.

Using ACFT Calculators to Check MOS Compliance

ACFT score calculators are especially helpful for checking whether you meet your specific MOS requirements. These tools can:

• Show you exactly where you stand compared to your category’s minimums
• Help you identify which events need the most improvement
• Track your progress toward meeting higher standards
• Plan training focused on your weakest areas

Whether you need to meet Gold, Gray, or Black standards, knowing your requirements and tracking your progress helps you stay career-ready and physically prepared for your military duties.

ACFT Training Plan: How to Prepare for Each Event

Event-Specific Training for Better ACFT Scores

Getting a good ACFT score requires training that targets each of the six events. You can’t just do general workouts – you need specific exercises that match what each event tests. Here’s how to train for each part of the Army Combat Fitness Test:

Maximum Deadlift (MDL) Training: Focus on building overall strength, especially in your legs, back, and grip. Key exercises include regular deadlifts with a barbell, squats to build leg strength, and grip strengthening exercises like farmer’s walks or hanging from a pull-up bar.

Standing Power Throw (SPT) Training: This event needs explosive power and coordination. Practice with medicine ball throws in different directions, do plyometric exercises like box jumps and explosive push-ups, and work on full-body movements that build power.

Hand-Release Push-Up (HRP) Training: Build upper body and core endurance with lots of push-up variations. Practice the exact hand-release movement, work on shoulder stability exercises, and strengthen your core with planks and other ab exercises.

Sprint/Drag/Carry (SDC) Training: This complex event needs agility, strength, and endurance. Practice shuttle runs, sled drags (or drag heavy objects if you don’t have a sled), kettlebell carries, and lateral movement drills to build the specific skills this event requires.

Plank (PLK) Training: Build core endurance with various plank exercises. Start with regular planks and work up to longer hold times. Add side planks, dynamic planks, and other core strengthening exercises to build the stability you need.

Two-Mile Run (2MR) Training: Improve your cardiovascular fitness with different types of running. Do interval runs (fast-slow-fast), tempo runs at a steady pace, and easy recovery jogs. Mix up your training to build both speed and endurance.

Sample Weekly ACFT Training Schedule

Here’s a simple way to organize your training week:

Monday & Thursday – Strength Focus: Work on Maximum Deadlift and Hand-Release Push-Up training. Focus on building strength and muscular endurance in these areas.

Tuesday & Friday – Power and Agility: Train for Standing Power Throw and Sprint/Drag/Carry events. Work on explosive movements and agility drills.

Wednesday & Saturday – Endurance Training: Focus on Plank holds and Two-Mile Run preparation. Build your cardiovascular fitness and core endurance.

Sunday – Rest and Recovery: Take a complete rest day or do light activity like walking or stretching. Your body needs time to recover and get stronger.

Important Training Tips for ACFT Success

Always warm up before training and cool down afterward to prevent injuries. Focus on proper form in all exercises – bad technique can lead to injuries and won’t help your scores. Make sure you’re eating well and staying hydrated, especially on test days.

Use ACFT score calculators regularly to track your progress and see which events need more work. This helps you adjust your training plan to focus on your weakest areas.

Common ACFT Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Training Mistakes That Hurt Your ACFT Score

Many soldiers make the same mistakes when preparing for the ACFT. Here are the most common problems and how to fix them:

Mistake #1: Only Training Your Strong Events Some soldiers focus too much on events they’re already good at and ignore the ones they struggle with. Remember, you need at least 60 points on every event to pass, so you can’t afford to have one really weak area.

Solution: Spend extra time on your weakest events while maintaining your strengths.

Mistake #2: Poor Pacing During the Test Going too fast at the beginning of events like the Sprint/Drag/Carry or Two-Mile Run can leave you exhausted before you finish.

Solution: Practice these events regularly and learn what pace you can maintain throughout the entire test.

Mistake #3: Bad Form in Strength Events Using poor technique in the deadlift or push-ups can result in no-reps (exercises that don’t count) or injuries.

Solution: Focus on proper form in training and ask for feedback from experienced soldiers or trainers.

Mistake #4: Skipping Mobility and Recovery Work Not stretching or doing mobility work can lead to injuries and poor performance.

Solution: Include stretching, foam rolling, and rest days in your training plan.

Mistake #5: Ignoring Nutrition and Hydration Poor eating and drinking habits can significantly impact your test performance.

Solution: Eat a good meal the night before your test, have a light breakfast on test day, and stay hydrated throughout the week.

How to Practice Like You’ll Test

The best way to prepare for the ACFT is to practice the events in the same order and timing as the real test. This helps your body get used to the flow and helps you pace yourself properly.

Use ACFT score calculators after practice sessions to track your improvement and identify areas that still need work.

ACFT Policy Updates and Future Changes

Recent Changes to the Army Combat Fitness Test

The ACFT has gone through several changes since it was first introduced. The most significant recent update was replacing leg tucks with the plank exercise, which has made the test safer and more accessible for all soldiers.

The Army has also implemented gender-neutral scoring, meaning men and women are held to the same standards for their MOS category. This reflects the Army’s commitment to equal standards based on job requirements rather than gender.

What Changes Might Come in 2025 and Beyond

Army leadership continues to review ACFT policies based on feedback from soldiers and commanders. Possible future changes might include adjustments to MOS-specific standards, improvements to testing procedures, and enhanced ways to track soldier performance over time.

It’s important to stay updated through official Army channels because policy changes can affect how scores are calculated and what standards you need to meet. Always check for the latest information to make sure your training aligns with current requirements.

How ACFT Scores Affect Your Military Career

Career Impact of ACFT Performance

Your ACFT scores do more than just determine if you pass or fail – they can significantly impact your military career progression. Here’s how good fitness scores help your Army career:

Promotion Boards: Higher ACFT scores make you more competitive for promotions. They show that you take care of yourself and can handle physical challenges.

Performance Evaluations: ACFT scores are often included in your annual evaluations, which affect your overall military record.

Special Schools and Training: Some military schools and specialized training programs require specific fitness levels for admission.

Leadership Opportunities: Soldiers with consistently high fitness scores are often selected for leadership positions because physical fitness demonstrates discipline and commitment.

Reenlistment and Career Longevity: Good fitness scores show that you’re committed to maintaining Army standards throughout your career.

Using Fitness Scores for Career Planning

Understanding how your ACFT scores affect your career helps you make better decisions about your military future. If you’re aiming for promotion or special assignments, consistently high scores across all events will make you more competitive.

ACFT score calculators help you understand exactly where you stand and what improvements could have the biggest impact on your career prospects.

Frequently Asked Questions About the ACFT

Common Questions About Army Fitness Testing

What are the minimum ACFT standards I need to meet?

All soldiers need at least 60 points per event (360 total), but your specific military job may require higher scores. Check with your unit to confirm your MOS requirements.

How often do I have to take the ACFT?

Most units administer the ACFT twice per year, but this can vary depending on your unit’s schedule and mission requirements.

Can I get alternative events if I’m injured?

The Army has some accommodations for soldiers with certain injuries or medical conditions. Talk to your chain of command and medical personnel about available alternatives.

Where can I find official ACFT score charts?

Official scoring charts are available through your unit leadership and Army fitness websites. These charts show exactly how your raw performance converts to points.

How accurate are online ACFT calculators?

Most reputable ACFT calculators use the official Army scoring formulas and provide accurate results. However, always verify important scores with official sources.

Resources for ACFT Success

To help you succeed on the ACFT, look for these helpful resources:

• Official Army ACFT scoring charts and standards
• Training guides that focus on each specific event
• Mobile apps and online calculators for tracking progress
• Unit fitness programs and group training opportunities

Take Control of Your ACFT Success

The Army Combat Fitness Test is more than just a requirement – it’s an opportunity to demonstrate your commitment to excellence and readiness for military service. By understanding how the test works, training smartly for each event, and tracking your progress with reliable tools, you can achieve the scores you need for your military career goals.

Whether you’re working toward minimum passing standards or aiming for maximum scores, consistent training and regular progress tracking will help you succeed. Use the information and strategies in this guide to build an effective training plan, avoid common mistakes, and make the most of your ACFT preparation.

Remember that physical fitness is a career-long commitment in the Army. The habits and discipline you develop preparing for the ACFT will serve you well throughout your military service and beyond.