Army Combat Fitness Test

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File:Army Combat Fitness Test.webm Army Combat Fitness Test (ACFT) is a physical fitness test implemented by the United States Army. The ACFT is designed to better assess soldiers' abilities to perform in combat situations. It replaced the previous Army Physical Fitness Test (APFT) in October 2020, marking a significant shift in how the Army evaluates physical readiness. The ACFT consists of six events that measure physical strength, endurance, power, and agility, reflecting the physical demands of combat tasks.

Overview

The Army Combat Fitness Test is a comprehensive assessment aimed at improving soldier readiness and lethality, reducing injuries, and better aligning with the Department of Defense's physical demands. It is mandatory for all active-duty soldiers and members of the Army National Guard and Army Reserve.

Events

The ACFT includes the following six events, which are conducted in order:

1. 3-Repetition Maximum Deadlift (MDL) - This event tests lower body strength. Soldiers lift a hex bar loaded with weights, aiming for the maximum weight they can deadlift three times.
2. Standing Power Throw (SPT) - Soldiers throw a 10-pound medicine ball backward as far as possible to measure explosive power.
3. Hand-Release Push-Up (HRP) - This variation of the traditional push-up assesses upper body endurance. Soldiers lower themselves to the ground, lift their hands off the ground, then push back up.
4. Sprint-Drag-Carry (SDC) - This event is a five-part drill that simulates battlefield movements. It includes a sprint, a drag of a 90-pound sled, a lateral movement, carrying two 40-pound kettlebells, and another sprint.
5. Leg Tuck (LTK) - Soldiers hang from a pull-up bar and raise their knees to their elbows to test core strength. An alternative plank event is available for those unable to complete a leg tuck.
6. Two-Mile Run (2MR) - This event assesses aerobic endurance, with soldiers running two miles as fast as they can.

Scoring

The ACFT is scored on a 600-point scale, with 100 points available for each event. The minimum passing score varies depending on the soldier's Military Occupational Specialty (MOS) and unit requirements. The test categorizes scores into three levels: Gold (above standard), Silver (meet standard), and Bronze (marginal).

Implementation

The transition to the ACFT from the APFT was part of the Army's broader effort to modernize its forces and prepare soldiers for the physical challenges of modern warfare. The ACFT's development involved extensive research and pilot testing to ensure it was a valid and reliable measure of combat fitness.

Controversies and Adjustments

The implementation of the ACFT has not been without controversy. Critics have raised concerns about potential gender disparities in scores and the impact on soldiers' careers. In response, the Army has made adjustments, including the introduction of the plank event as an alternative to the leg tuck and ongoing evaluations to ensure fairness and inclusivity.

Conclusion

The Army Combat Fitness Test represents a significant evolution in the Army's approach to physical readiness. By focusing on a broader range of physical skills and aligning more closely with combat requirements, the ACFT aims to ensure that all soldiers are better prepared for the demands of modern military service.