The physical fitness tests of all branches of the military and other special units have differing exercises, standards, and distances in runs and swims. This week’s article is a one-stop location for answers to the many different PFTs in our Department of Defense.
The Army physical fitness test consists of a 2 mile run, sit-ups and push-ups.
Check out his link: Army PFT Scores - for answers to exact numbers needed and grades received for the army test.
See this link for specific guidance on getting in shape to score an outstanding score of 300.
West Point - See how to prep for the CFA - Candidate Fitness Assessment
The Army Rangers have a requirement for their candidates to score the following prior to attending Ranger School.
For better ideas on how to prepare for such difficult training, see the link StewSmith.com Fitness Ebook store.
For Army Special Forces assessment and Selection Course (SFAS), it is recommended to score a minimum of 260 on the Army PFT for 17-21 year old male. This three-week course requires you to be able to fast march many miles a day using land navigation skills, climb obstacle courses. If you can do the recommended scores for Army Ranger, you should be well prepared for SFAS
Navy Physical readiness tests, with associated height/weight/body fat measurements, are conducted twice each fiscal year. 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. This is a standard PT test used by other braches and many law enforcement agencies across the United States. See the link below for scoring criteria:
NAVY PRT Standards Memo
Navy Height / Weight Standards
The Navy SEALs, Navy SWCC, 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
Navy SWCC
Navy SAR and Coast Guard HRS
Air Force
During initial entry processing, both men and women are required to pass a Physical Fitness test that measures cardiovascular endurance, muscular strength and endurance and mobility. The test consists of the 2-mile run, push ups and sit-ups. In addition to initial entry physical fitness requirements, the Air Force has an annual fitness test requiring a passing score in a 1.5 mile run, pushups and sit-ups. See the Navy PFT link for ideas on scoring well on the AF PFT since it is the same test. This link will give you an idea of minimum scores for some groups.
AF PFT Chart
AF PFT Page
The Air Force Special Forces units – PJs or para-rescue forces have a Navy SEAL type fitness test and standards. Also see CCT on above page.
Marine Corps
The Physical Fitness Test is administered every six months. All Marines are provided time to train and are expected to maintain an adequate degree of physical fitness. The standard physical fitness test consists of three events that measure cardiovascular endurance, muscular strength and endurance and mobility. Male Marines will perform "dead-hang” pull-ups, abdominal crunches, and a 3.0-mile run. Female Marines will complete the "flexed-arm" hang, abdominal crunches, and a 3.0 - mile run.
Check out this USMC PFT calculator to figure out where your fitness level stands compared to a U.S. Marine.
USMC PFT
Weight Control
USMC RECON has a challenging course of instruction
Coast Guard
Physical fitness requirements in the Coast Guard are directly linked to On the Job requirements. Coast Guard men and women who are rescue swimmers, small boat crew members, etc., must comply with the specific physical standards set forth by their position, but here are the standards for the “Navy PFT” plus 12 minute swim.
Navy SAR and Coast Guard HRS
Coast Guard Fitness Standards
Passing Swim Test
Underway Workout
This article should help many with finding the standards they should reach prior to joining the military. 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.