Army Physical Fitness Standards Regulation Guide

Introduction to Army Physical Fitness Standards

The Army Physical Fitness Standards are a set of regulations that outline the physical fitness requirements for soldiers in the United States Army. These standards are designed to ensure that soldiers are physically prepared to perform their duties and meet the demands of combat. The Army Physical Fitness Test (APFT) is a standardized test that measures a soldier’s physical fitness and is used to assess their overall fitness level.

Components of the Army Physical Fitness Test

The APFT consists of three components: push-ups, sit-ups, and a 2-mile run. Each component is designed to test a different aspect of physical fitness, including upper body strength, core strength, and cardiovascular endurance. The test is scored based on the number of push-ups and sit-ups completed, as well as the time it takes to complete the 2-mile run.

Push-ups

The push-up component of the APFT tests a soldier’s upper body strength and endurance. Soldiers are required to complete as many push-ups as possible in one minute, with proper form and technique. The push-up standards vary by age and gender, with younger soldiers and males generally required to complete more push-ups than older soldiers and females.

Sit-ups

The sit-up component of the APFT tests a soldier’s core strength and endurance. Soldiers are required to complete as many sit-ups as possible in one minute, with proper form and technique. Like push-ups, the sit-up standards vary by age and gender.

2-Mile Run

The 2-mile run component of the APFT tests a soldier’s cardiovascular endurance. Soldiers are required to complete the 2-mile run in as little time as possible, with the fastest times generally scoring the highest. The 2-mile run standards also vary by age and gender.

Scoring the APFT

The APFT is scored based on the number of push-ups and sit-ups completed, as well as the time it takes to complete the 2-mile run. Each component is scored separately, with a maximum score of 100 points possible for each component. The total score is then calculated by adding the scores for each component, with a maximum total score of 300 points possible.

Army Physical Fitness Standards by Age and Gender

The Army Physical Fitness Standards vary by age and gender, with different standards for males and females, as well as for different age groups. The following table outlines the APFT standards for males and females by age group:

Age Group	Male Push-ups	Male Sit-ups	Male 2-Mile Run	Female Push-ups	Female Sit-ups	Female 2-Mile Run
17-20	42-53	49-59	13:00-14:30	19-29	37-47	15:36-17:12
21-27	40-52	47-58	13:30-15:00	18-28	35-45	16:12-17:48
28-39	36-49	43-55	14:30-16:30	15-25	30-40	17:48-19:24
40-49	30-43	37-49	16:30-18:30	12-20	25-35	19:24-21:00
50-59	25-38	32-45	18:30-20:30	8-16	20-30	21:00-22:36
60+	20-33	25-40	20:30-22:30	5-12	15-25	22:36-24:12

Preparing for the APFT

To prepare for the APFT, soldiers should engage in regular physical training that targets the three components of the test: push-ups, sit-ups, and cardiovascular endurance. A well-rounded fitness program should include exercises such as push-ups, sit-ups, and running, as well as other activities that improve overall fitness and athleticism.

👊 Note: It's essential to warm up before starting any physical activity, including the APFT, to prevent injuries and ensure proper form and technique.

Tips for Improving APFT Scores

To improve APFT scores, soldiers should focus on the following tips: * Incorporate strength training: Building upper body strength through exercises like push-ups and dumbbell presses can help improve push-up scores. * Increase cardiovascular endurance: Engaging in regular cardio activities like running, cycling, or swimming can help improve 2-mile run times. * Focus on core strength: Building core strength through exercises like sit-ups, planks, and Russian twists can help improve sit-up scores. * Practice proper form and technique: Ensuring proper form and technique during each component of the APFT can help improve scores and prevent injuries.

In summary, the Army Physical Fitness Standards are a set of regulations that outline the physical fitness requirements for soldiers in the United States Army. The APFT is a standardized test that measures a soldier’s physical fitness and is used to assess their overall fitness level. By understanding the components of the APFT, scoring, and preparation techniques, soldiers can improve their physical fitness and achieve a high score on the test.