Physical Fitness and the Army
Serving in the army requires a certain level of physical fitness. The army physical test, also known as the Army Physical Fitness Test (APFT), is a standardized test that measures a soldier’s physical abilities. The test is designed to assess a soldier’s readiness for combat and to identify areas where they may need to improve their physical fitness.
Components of the Army Physical Test
The army physical test consists of three components:
Push-ups
- Muscle group: Chest, shoulders, and triceps
- Test procedure: Soldiers are required to perform as many push-ups as possible in two minutes.
- Scoring: Soldiers are awarded points based on the number of push-ups they complete.
Sit-ups
- Muscle group: Abdominal muscles
- Test procedure: Soldiers are required to perform as many sit-ups as possible in two minutes.
- Scoring: Soldiers are awarded points based on the number of sit-ups they complete.
2-Mile Run
- Muscle group: Cardiovascular endurance
- Test procedure: Soldiers are required to complete a 2-mile run in the shortest time possible.
- Scoring: Soldiers are awarded points based on their completion time.
Scoring and Requirements
Soldiers are awarded points for each component of the test, and the points are then added together to determine their overall score. The minimum score required to pass the test is 180 points, with a minimum of 60 points in each component.
| Component | Minimum Score |
|---|---|
| Push-ups | 30 (for men), 19 (for women) |
| Sit-ups | 30 (for men), 19 (for women) |
| 2-Mile Run | 14:00 minutes (for men), 17:00 minutes (for women) |
Additional Requirements
In addition to the physical test, soldiers are also required to meet certain body fat percentage requirements.
| Age | Body Fat Percentage (Men) | Body Fat Percentage (Women) |
|---|---|---|
| 17-20 | 20% | 30% |
| 21-27 | 22% | 32% |
| 28-39 | 24% | 34% |
| 40-49 | 26% | 36% |
| 50+ | 28% | 38% |
Preparing for the Army Physical Test
To prepare for the army physical test, soldiers can engage in a variety of physical activities, including:
- Cardiovascular exercise: Running, cycling, swimming, and other activities that improve cardiovascular endurance.
- Strength training: Weightlifting, push-ups, sit-ups, and other activities that improve muscular strength and endurance.
- Flexibility and mobility: Stretching, yoga, and other activities that improve flexibility and mobility.
Soldiers can also use the following tips to prepare for the test:
- Create a workout plan: Develop a workout plan that includes a variety of physical activities.
- Start slowly: Gradually increase the intensity and duration of workouts.
- Get enough rest: Get plenty of rest and recovery time to avoid injury.
Conclusion
The army physical test is a standardized test that measures a soldier’s physical abilities. To pass the test, soldiers must meet certain minimum requirements in three components: push-ups, sit-ups, and the 2-mile run. Soldiers can prepare for the test by engaging in a variety of physical activities and following a workout plan. By preparing for the test, soldiers can ensure that they are physically ready for combat and other physically demanding activities.
What are the minimum requirements for the army physical test?
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The minimum score required to pass the test is 180 points, with a minimum of 60 points in each component.
How can I prepare for the army physical test?
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Soldiers can prepare for the test by engaging in a variety of physical activities, including cardiovascular exercise, strength training, and flexibility and mobility exercises.
What is the body fat percentage requirement for the army physical test?
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The body fat percentage requirement varies depending on age and sex. For example, men aged 17-20 must have a body fat percentage of 20% or less, while women aged 17-20 must have a body fat percentage of 30% or less.
Related Terms:
- Military physical training
- U S Army recruitment
- U S Army requirements
