Physical Fitness Requirements for the US Army
To serve in the US Army, individuals must meet specific physical fitness requirements. These requirements are designed to ensure that soldiers can perform their duties safely and effectively. In this article, we will discuss the 5 key US Army physical fitness requirements.
1. The Army Physical Fitness Test (APFT)
The APFT is a standardized test that measures a soldier’s physical fitness. The test consists of three events: push-ups, sit-ups, and a 2-mile run. Soldiers are required to score a minimum of 60 points in each event to pass the test. The scoring system is as follows:
- Push-ups: 30-100 points
- Sit-ups: 30-100 points
- 2-mile run: 13:30-30:00 minutes
Soldiers are required to take the APFT every 6 months to ensure they maintain a high level of physical fitness.
2. Body Fat Percentage
The US Army has strict body fat percentage requirements. The maximum body fat percentage for men is 20-24%, while for women it is 24-30%. Soldiers who exceed these limits may be subject to additional physical fitness training or even separation from the Army.
3. Height and Weight
Soldiers must meet specific height and weight requirements to serve in the US Army. The requirements vary depending on age, sex, and body fat percentage. For example, a 25-year-old male soldier must weigh between 125-159 pounds to meet the Army’s height and weight standards.
| Age | Male Height (in) | Male Weight (lbs) | Female Height (in) | Female Weight (lbs) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 17-20 | 60-76 | 110-147 | 58-72 | 100-135 |
| 21-27 | 61-77 | 120-158 | 59-73 | 105-141 |
| 28-39 | 62-78 | 130-168 | 60-74 | 110-148 |
4. Running Requirements
Soldiers must be able to run 2 miles in 13:30 minutes or less to pass the APFT. Additionally, soldiers may be required to participate in unit runs or other physical training activities that involve running.
5. Combat Water Survival Test (CWST)
The CWST is a physical fitness test that measures a soldier’s ability to survive in water. Soldiers must be able to swim 100 meters using any stroke, tread water for 5 minutes, and perform a series of water survival tasks.
🚨 Note: Soldiers who fail to meet the US Army's physical fitness requirements may be subject to additional training or even separation from the Army.
To ensure they meet the physical fitness requirements, soldiers must maintain a regular exercise routine that includes cardio, strength training, and flexibility exercises. A balanced diet and sufficient rest are also essential for maintaining physical fitness.
US Army physical fitness requirements are designed to ensure that soldiers can perform their duties safely and effectively. By meeting these requirements, soldiers can maintain a high level of physical fitness and stay healthy.
The US Army’s physical fitness requirements are an essential part of military life. Soldiers who meet these requirements can perform their duties safely and effectively, while those who fail to meet the requirements may be subject to additional training or even separation from the Army.
What is the minimum score required to pass the APFT?
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Soldiers must score a minimum of 60 points in each event to pass the APFT.
What is the maximum body fat percentage for male soldiers?
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The maximum body fat percentage for male soldiers is 20-24%.
What is the minimum running time required to pass the APFT?
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Soldiers must run 2 miles in 13:30 minutes or less to pass the APFT.
