Navy Physical readiness tests, with associated height/weight/body fat measurements, are conducted twice each year for active duty and reservist sailors. It is also tested at boot camp for recruits upon arrival into the Navy.
The test is designed to measure flexibility, muscular endurance and aerobic capacity. The Navy physical fitness test consists of a 1.5 mile run, sit-ups and push-ups. Also swimming 500m for time is an option for the 1.5 mile run once you are active duty. This is a standard PT test used by other branches and many law enforcement agencies across the United States.
PFT SCORING. The Navy PFT score is determined by averaging the scores of the three fitness events.
For example, let's say a 25 year old female does 91 curl-ups (sit ups), 26 push-ups, and completes the 1.5 mile run in 15:23. Looking at the female chart for the 25 year old group, we see that is worth 85 points for the curl-ups, 65 points for the push ups, and 55 points for the running event.
To find the average, we add the scores together, then divide by 3. 85 + 65 + 55 = 205. 205/3 = 68. This sailor would receive a PRT score of 68, which we can see on the below chart is categorized as "Good (Medium)."
To graduate boot camp, a sailor needs an overall category of "Good (Low)," which means their average in three events must be 60 points or greater.
After boot camp, to pass the periodic Navy fitness test, a sailor needs to be in the Satisfactory (Medium) category, or above, which means they must have an average score of at least 50.
The Navy SEALs, Navy SWCC, Divers, and SAR swimmers naturally have more water based fitness tests and training. See the following links on the standards and information about the schools:
Navy SEALs / EOD Workout
Navy SWCC Workout
Navy SAR Workout
This article should help many with finding the standards you should reach prior to joining the Navy. It is always recommended to never strive for the minimum physical standards when seeking a profession that requires a fit body to perhaps save your life or the lives of your comrades. If you are seeking to get back into shape and want to be as fit as one of the above military members, check with your doctor before starting any fitness program.
Feel free to email me at stew@stewsmith.com and thanks for the many emails in the past that prompted me to do some research on this article. Hope it helps.