Question 1

What is the Army Fitness Test (AFT)?

Accepted Answer

The Army Fitness Test (AFT) is the U.S. Army's official physical fitness assessment that replaces the Army Combat Fitness Test (ACFT). It was designed to better assess combat readiness, reduce musculoskeletal injuries, and create a more physically prepared force capable of meeting operational demands in austere environments.

Question 2

When does the AFT officially become the test of record?

Accepted Answer

The AFT officially becomes the test of record on June 1, 2025, for all components of the Army (Active Duty, Reserve, and National Guard).

Question 3

How is the AFT different from the ACFT?

Accepted Answer

The primary differences include: The AFT has five events instead of six (the Standing Power Throw has been eliminated), new gender-neutral standards have been established for 21 combat Military Occupational Specialties (MOS), higher minimum score requirements for soldiers in combat roles (350 points vs. 300 points), and updated scoring tables with adjusted standards for various events.

Question 4

Why was the Standing Power Throw removed from the test?

Accepted Answer

The Standing Power Throw was removed due to several factors: RAND Corporation analysis identified it as having "strong associations with future injury," concerns about the event's ability to accurately measure power due to technique and height influencing results, and the Army could not "scientifically validate" the event as an accurate measure of power.

Question 5

How often will I need to take the AFT?

Accepted Answer

Active Duty soldiers must take the AFT twice per year (semi-annually). Army Reserve and National Guard soldiers must take it once per year (annually).

Question 6

What are the five events in the AFT?

Accepted Answer

The five events are: 1) Three-Repetition Maximum Deadlift (MDL), 2) Hand-Release Push-Up (HRPU), 3) Sprint-Drag-Carry (SDC), 4) Plank, and 5) Two-Mile Run (2MR). These events must be performed in this specific sequence, with appropriate rest periods between events.

Question 7

What are the passing scores for the AFT?

Accepted Answer

Combat MOS soldiers need a minimum of 60 points in each event AND a total minimum score of 350 points. Non-combat MOS soldiers need a minimum of 60 points in each event AND a total minimum score of 300 points.

Question 8

What is the maximum possible score on the AFT?

Accepted Answer

With the removal of one event, the maximum possible score is now 500 points (100 points per event).

Question 9

How is the AFT scored?

Accepted Answer

The AFT uses two different scoring approaches: Combat standard (sex-neutral and age-normed for 21 combat MOS positions) and General standard (performance-normed by sex and age groups for non-combat positions).

Question 10

When will the AFT standards take effect?

Accepted Answer

June 1, 2025: AFT becomes the official test of record for all soldiers. January 1, 2026: Combat standards take effect for Active Duty soldiers. June 1, 2026: Combat standards take effect for Army Reserve and National Guard soldiers.

Question 11

When will the new scoring tables be released?

Accepted Answer

The Army will release implementation guidance, execution orders, and associated scoring tables in May 2025.

Question 12

When will soldiers face consequences for failing to meet the new standards?

Accepted Answer

Active Duty combat MOS soldiers: Beginning January 1, 2026. Reserve and National Guard combat MOS soldiers: Beginning June 1, 2026. Non-combat MOS soldiers: Immediately after the AFT becomes the test of record.

Question 13

Which Military Occupational Specialties (MOS) are classified as combat positions?

Accepted Answer

The 21 combat MOS positions subject to the higher standards include: Infantry, Special Forces, Artillery, Armor, Cavalry, Mortarmen, Combat Engineers, and Special Forces Warrant Officers.

Question 14

What happens if a combat MOS soldier fails to meet the 350-point standard?

Accepted Answer

If a combat MOS soldier fails to achieve a score of 350 after their second test attempt, they may be forced to reclassify into a new job based on the "needs of the Army at that time."

Question 15

Do female soldiers in combat MOS positions have to meet the same standards as males?

Accepted Answer

Yes. The AFT combat standard is sex-neutral, meaning female soldiers in designated combat MOS positions must meet the same physical standards as male soldiers in those positions.

Question 16

What if I have a medical profile that prevents me from completing certain events?

Accepted Answer

For soldiers with permanent profiles: You must complete all events not prohibited by your profile, you must average at least 70 points across a minimum of 4 events (280 total minimum), and you must receive a "GO" in alternate aerobic events if you cannot complete the 2-mile run.

Question 17

What are the alternate events for soldiers on permanent profiles?

Accepted Answer

Alternate aerobic events that can replace the 2-mile run include: 5,000-meter row, 15,000-meter stationary bike, and 1,000-meter swim.

Question 18

What about temporary profiles?

Accepted Answer

If you have a temporary profile, you should use alternate events for training purposes, but you won't take the officially scored AFT until you're medically cleared.

Question 19

What if I fail the AFT?

Accepted Answer

If you fail a recorded-score AFT, the Army will provide you with support and training to improve your score, and you'll have a chance to retake the test. If you fail two consecutive recorded-score AFTs, you may face involuntary separation from the Army.

Question 20

How should I train for the AFT?

Accepted Answer

Effective training for the AFT should include: Strength training focusing on deadlifts and upper body exercises, high-intensity interval training for the Sprint-Drag-Carry, core strength training for the plank, aerobic training for the 2-Mile Run, and specific practice of the test events to master proper form and technique.

Question 21

Can I wear special equipment during the AFT?

Accepted Answer

You will conduct the AFT in the Army Physical Fitness Uniform. Other devices or gear, such as weightlifting belts or gloves, are not permitted unless prescribed by a medical provider. Gloves may be worn during the Deadlift event if they meet AR 670-1 standards.

Question 22

What are the facility requirements for the AFT?

Accepted Answer

The AFT requires: A testing site with a two-mile running course, a flat 40x40-meter space (grass or artificial turf if indoors), wood and rubberized surfaces are not authorized for the Sprint-Drag-Carry, and appropriate equipment for each event (hex bar, weights, kettlebells, sled, etc.).

Question 23

How long should the AFT take to complete?

Accepted Answer

The AFT is intended to be completed in 70 minutes or less, including rest periods between events.

Question 24

How many soldiers can be tested at once?

Accepted Answer

The number of testing lanes will depend on the number of soldiers undergoing testing. Each testing lane should have one certified AFT grader, and there should be no more than four soldiers per grader.

Frequently Asked Questions

General FAQ

AFT Events and Scoring

Implementation Timeline

Combat MOS Requirements

Profile and Alternate Events

Training and Preparation

AFT Testing Conditions