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If you've ever been intrigued by the fitness standards and regimen of the military, you might have come across the Army Combat Fitness Test (ACFT). This challenging test is designed to evaluate the physical readiness and combat abilities of U.S. Army soldiers. But whether you're considering a career in the military or are just fascinated by the strength and endurance it requires, here are seven cool facts about the ACFT you should know:
A New Era of Testing: The ACFT was implemented in 2020, replacing the Army Physical Fitness Test (APFT), which had been the standard for nearly four decades. The APFT consisted of push-ups, sit-ups, and a 2-mile run, but the ACFT introduces a more comprehensive assessment to ensure soldiers are prepared for the varied demands of modern combat.
The ACFT comprises six events that test a soldier's strength, endurance, power, speed, agility, balance, flexibility, coordination, and reaction time. These events are:
3 Repetition Maximum Deadlift: Evaluates lower body strength.
Standing Power Throw: Measures explosive power.
Hand-Release Push-Ups: An upgrade on the standard push-up.
Sprint-Drag-Carry: A test of anaerobic capacity, mimicking battlefield movements.
Leg Tuck: Assesses core and grip strength.
2-Mile Run: Evaluates aerobic capacity.
While the previous APFT had different scoring standards for men and women, the ACFT is gender-neutral, reflecting a modern understanding that battlefield roles don’t differentiate based on gender. Everyone is expected to meet the same minimum standards, emphasizing the importance of universal combat readiness.
The ACFT requires specific equipment, including barbells, hex bars, kettlebells, medicine balls, and sleds. This equipment allows for a broader range of assessments compared to the APFT, ensuring that soldiers are tested on tasks that closely resemble real-world battlefield scenarios.
Instead of a pass/fail system, the ACFT uses a three-tiered performance category: Gold, Silver, and Bronze. These categories help identify the areas where a soldier excels or needs improvement, providing more detailed feedback than just a pass or fail.
Every event in the ACFT has been meticulously designed to correlate with real-world tasks that soldiers might encounter on the battlefield. For instance, the 3 Repetition Maximum Deadlift is said to simulate the task of lifting and carrying heavy equipment or a fallen comrade. The Sprint-Drag-Carry mimics running from cover, dragging a wounded teammate, and moving equipment under fire. This real-world relevance ensures that a soldier's performance in the ACFT reflects their true combat readiness.
The U.S. Army is constantly reviewing and refining the ACFT, gathering data to ensure the test remains relevant, accurate, and fair. Feedback from soldiers and rigorous field testing could lead to further changes and adaptations, ensuring the ACFT continues to be the gold standard for military fitness assessments.
The Army Combat Fitness Test represents a bold step forward in the U.S. Army's commitment to ensuring its soldiers are combat-ready. While it's challenging and multifaceted, it provides a holistic evaluation of a soldier's physical capabilities. Whether you're aspiring to join the Army or are just an enthusiast, the ACFT showcases the dedication, strength, and prowess of the modern U.S. soldier. If you ever get a chance to watch or even participate in a mock ACFT, seize it – it's an experience that provides a real glimpse into the physical demands of military life.
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About the Author:
Cory McKane
Cory is a huge fan of fitness - and an even bigger fan of helping you with your fitness. He's started on his journey with WeStrive back in 2015 and has been building it ever since.
