Mastering the Army Combat Fitness Test (ACFT) is no easy feat. It demands a well-rounded blend of strength, endurance, and agility – attributes that separate the battle-ready from the rest. As you embark on this challenging journey, it's natural to have questions. That's why we've compiled 16 essential FAQs to equip you with the knowledge you need to conquer the ACFT.
1. What is ACFT 3.0?
ACFT 3.0 represents the latest evolution of the Army Combat Fitness Test, introduced in April 2021. This iteration incorporates key changes based on soldier feedback and an independent RAND Corporation assessment. The most significant updates include gender-normed scoring standards, the 2.5-mile walk as an alternate aerobic event, and the plank as the sole core-strength event, replacing the leg tuck.1
2. Is the ACFT currently in effect?
Absolutely. The ACFT is the official physical fitness assessment for all soldiers, having replaced the long-standing Army Physical Fitness Test (APFT) in October 2020. This comprehensive evaluation better prepares troops for the rigors of modern combat and aims to reduce preventable injuries.
3. Is the ACFT hard?
Without a doubt. Unlike the APFT's standardized push-ups, sit-ups, and running, the ACFT's events like the deadlift, hand-release push-ups, and sprint-drag-carry mimic real combat scenarios. These functional movements, coupled with stricter scoring standards, make the ACFT a formidable challenge even for the fittest soldiers.
4. What is the primary purpose of the ACFT?
The ACFT's primary purpose is to ensure soldiers are battle-ready and resilient. It pushes troops to their limits with a variety of tests that measure strength, endurance, and agility, mirroring the physical demands of combat. This comprehensive approach marks a significant shift from the APFT's focus on aerobic endurance.
5. Why was the ACFT created?
The ACFT was crafted to forge soldiers who are not just fit, but battle-ready. It focuses on functional fitness, preparing troops for the real, gritty demands of combat, from sprinting to aid a comrade under fire to dragging them to safety. This approach enhances both physical conditioning and mental resilience, crucial for modern warfare.
6. ACFT or APFT: Which test is currently used?
The U.S. Army has officially transitioned to the ACFT as its standard for assessing physical fitness, replacing the APFT. This shift reflects a significant evolution in the Army's approach to physical training and readiness, better evaluating a soldier's combat readiness.
7. How long does it take to complete the ACFT?
The entire ACFT, including all six events, is structured to be completed in 70 minutes or less. This efficient timing ensures a thorough assessment without consuming an entire day, allowing soldiers to focus on performance with minimal downtime. More information can be found here.
8. What qualifies as a good score on the ACFT?
Achieving a great ACFT score requires serious dedication. There are several categories of ACFT scores that indicate different levels of physical fitness and combat readiness:
- Heavy (Black) Category: A minimum score of 60 points is required to pass this category. This is the lowest passing category.
- Significant (Gray) Category: A minimum score of 65 points is needed to pass this category.
- Moderate (Gold) Category: Soldiers must score at least 70 points to pass this category. It represents a moderate level of combat readiness.
- Some (Red) Category: A score of 75 points or higher is required to pass this category, indicating a higher level of physical fitness and combat readiness.
- Excellent Score: What makes a 90+ score so impressive? It means excelling across all six events. Achieving this level of performance requires a well-rounded training regimen that builds strength, endurance, and agility to the highest degree.
These categories are based on the ACFT's 100-point scoring system, which awards points for each event based on performance and age/gender norms. The higher the category, the better the soldier's physical conditioning and combat readiness.
9. What do ACFT scores look like for different genders and ranks?
Curious about how everyone stacks up on the ACFT? Well, scores do vary by gender and rank. Here’s a quick look at the average scores based on an article by the Reserve & National Guard:
- Women
- Enlisted: Average Score 343
- Noncommissioned Officers: Average Score 363
- Officers: Average Score 389
- Warrant Officers: Average Score 370
- Men
- Enlisted: Average Score 461
- Noncommissioned Officers: Average Score 478
- Officers: Average Score 500
- Warrant Officers: Average Score 454
On average, men tend to score higher than women across different ranks, with male officers achieving the highest average score of 500. However, scores generally progress from enlisted to officers among both genders, suggesting higher ranks tend to achieve higher ACFT scores.
10. Is participation in the ACFT mandatory for all personnel?
Yes, participation in the ACFT is mandatory for all Army personnel. Soldiers must pass a record ACFT to graduate from all Professional Military Education courses starting on October 1, 2022, or later, and take the test at least once a year or whenever seeking career advancement.
11. Who is qualified to grade the ACFT?
Ensuring the ACFT's fairness and accuracy hinges on the qualifications of those who administer and score the test. The U.S. Army has established rigorous training programs for ACFT Graders and Non-Commissioned Officer/Officer in Charge (NCOIC/OIC) roles, involving 8-24 hours of instruction, including taking the ACFT themselves.
12. Can I wear gloves during the ACFT?
Yes, soldiers are permitted to wear gloves during the ACFT, as long as they conform to AR 670-1 and do not provide an unfair advantage or compromise the test's integrity. The primary purpose is to protect the hands during events that may cause abrasions or minor injuries.
13. Where are ACFT test centers located?
ACFT test centers are located at various Army installations and facilities across the United States, catering to both active-duty soldiers and reservists. Your local unit or base will have the most up-to-date information on where you can take the ACFT.
14. Where are ACFT scores posted?
Your ACFT scores are promptly posted in the Digital Training Management System (DTMS) within a week of completing the test. This system allows you and your commanders to access and review your performance details, crucial for tracking your physical fitness progress.
15. What are the guidelines for the ACFT during pregnancy?
Pregnant soldiers are not required to participate in the ACFT until they receive medical clearance postpartum. The Army supports soldiers in returning to their pre-pregnancy fitness levels through the Postpartum Physical Training (P3T) program, tailored to help them gradually regain their fitness in a safe and effective manner.
16. How can I prepare for the ACFT?
Preparing for the ACFT requires a strategic, full-body training approach tailored to the test's unique demands. Incorporate functional exercises that mimic the ACFT's events, such as deadlifts, sprints, and carries, to build the necessary strength, endurance, and agility. Consult with fitness professionals or utilize resources like acft-calculator.com to develop a comprehensive training plan.
Conquering the ACFT is no easy feat, but with the right knowledge and preparation, you can rise to the challenge. Bookmark this FAQ and refer to it as you navigate your ACFT journey, ensuring you're equipped with the insights you need to excel.
About Jackson T. Hartwell
Jackson is a dedicated fitness enthusiast specializing in military-style training and fitness writing. Jackson's writing style is engaging and accessible, making complex fitness regimens understandable to a wide audience. His commitment to fitness extends beyond traditional gym routines, encompassing various disciplines to enhance endurance, strength, and agility.