The Army Combat Fitness Test (ACFT) is an essential test used by the U.S. Army to measure the physical readiness of its soldiers. To pass the ACFT, soldiers must meet certain standards for each of the six events. Understanding the ACFT scoring chart is crucial for knowing how your performance is measured, what you need to improve, and how you can reach your fitness goals.
Here we’ll explain the ACFT scoring chart, how points are awarded for each event, and provide a breakdown of the official standards and scoring for different age groups and genders. Whether you’re preparing for the ACFT or just curious about how it works, this guide will help you navigate the scoring system.
What is the ACFT Scoring Chart?
The ACFT scoring chart is a system used to assign points based on how well a soldier performs in each of the six test events. The chart uses a scale from 0 to 100 points for each event, with 100 points being the maximum score for an event and 0 points being the minimum.
The goal is to earn at least 60 points per event to meet the minimum requirements for passing the ACFT. The total score is out of 600 points, which means the maximum possible score is 600 points if you achieve perfect results in all events.
Each event has a set of standards based on age and gender, so soldiers in different categories will have slightly different performance requirements. The scoring chart helps to determine how many points a soldier earns based on their performance for each specific event.
Breakdown of the Six ACFT Events
The ACFT includes six events, and each one is scored individually. Here’s a brief overview of the events, how they’re scored, and the ACFT scoring chart for each:
1. Deadlift
The Deadlift event tests lower-body strength. Soldiers are required to lift a hex bar (trap bar) from the ground to a standing position.
- Scoring Range: 140 pounds to 340 pounds
- Event Requirements:
- The soldier must perform a correct deadlift within the required weight range for their age and gender.
- Each soldier has three attempts, and the highest weight successfully lifted is used for scoring.
Sample Scoring:
- 140 lbs: 60 points
- 160 lbs: 70 points
- 180 lbs: 80 points
- 340 lbs: 100 points
2. Standing Power Throw
The Standing Power Throw measures explosive power and coordination. Soldiers throw a 10-pound medicine ball backward as far as possible they can.
- Scoring Range: 4.5 meters to 12.5 meters
Sample Scoring:
- 4.5 meters: 60 points
- 7.5 meters: 80 points
- 12.5 meters: 100 points
3. Hand-Release Push-Ups
The Hand-Release Push-Ups event tests upper-body strength and endurance. Soldiers perform push-ups with a unique hand-release technique, where they lower their chest to the ground and release their hands before pushing back up.
- Scoring Range: 10 to 60 push-ups
Sample Scoring:
- 10 push-ups: 60 points
- 30 push-ups: 85 points
- 60 push-ups: 100 points
4. Sprint-Drag-Carry (SDC)
The Sprint-Drag-Carry event evaluates a soldier’s speed, agility, and strength. Soldiers must sprint, drag a sled, and carry kettlebells, all while maintaining a fast pace.
- Scoring Range: 3:35 minutes to 2:30 minutes
Sample Scoring:
- 3:35 minutes: 60 points
- 3:00 minutes: 80 points
- 2:30 minutes: 100 points
5. Leg Tuck
The Leg Tuck measures core strength and endurance. Soldiers must hang from a pull-up bar and raise their knees to their chest as many times as possible.
- Scoring Range: 1 to 20 leg tucks
Sample Scoring:
- 1 leg tuck: 60 points
- 10 leg tucks: 80 points
- 20 leg tucks: 100 points
6. 2-Mile Run
The 2-Mile Run measures cardiovascular endurance. Soldiers are required to run 2 miles as quickly as possible.
- Scoring Range: 21:00 minutes to 12:30 minutes (for males), 23:00 minutes to 14:00 minutes (for females)
Sample Scoring:
- 21:00 minutes (male): 60 points
- 18:00 minutes (male): 80 points
- 12:30 minutes (male): 100 points
- 23:00 minutes (female): 60 points
- 20:00 minutes (female): 80 points
- 14:00 minutes (female): 100 points
How the ACFT Scoring Chart Works
The ACFT scoring system is based on performance for each event. Soldiers receive points based on how well they perform in each event, and the scores are combined to give a total score out of 600 points.
- Maximum Score: A soldier can earn 100 points per event, making the total possible score 600 points (100 points × 6 events).
- Minimum Passing Score: A soldier must score at least 60 points in each event and achieve a minimum total score of 360 points to pass the ACFT.
Scoring Based on Age and Gender
The ACFT scoring chart adjusts for age and gender, ensuring fairness in how soldiers are graded. Different standards are used for different age groups and genders, meaning that a soldier’s physical capabilities are evaluated in a way that considers their age and sex.
For example, the scoring for the 2-mile run is faster for younger soldiers compared to older ones. Similarly, the standards for the Deadlift and Leg Tuck may vary slightly for men and women.
ACFT Age and Gender Scoring Adjustments
The Army has set age categories and gender categories to ensure that soldiers are evaluated fairly. The age categories are as follows:
- 17-21 years old
- 22-26 years old
- 27-31 years old
- 32-36 years old
- 37-41 years old
- 42+ years old
Each of these categories has specific standards for each event that adjust based on age and gender. Here’s how the scoring works for some common categories:
2-Mile Run (Male vs Female Example)
- Male (17-21 years old): 12:30 minutes = 100 points, 14:00 minutes = 60 points
- Female (17-21 years old): 14:00 minutes = 100 points, 16:00 minutes = 60 points
Deadlift (Male vs Female Example)
- Male (17-21 years old): 340 lbs = 100 points, 140 lbs = 60 points
- Female (17-21 years old): 250 lbs = 100 points, 140 lbs = 60 points
Tips for Improving Your ACFT Score
- Train for Each Event: Focus on training for each specific event in the ACFT. For example, work on strength training for the Deadlift, explosive exercises for the Power Throw, and running drills for the 2-Mile Run.
- Track Your Progress: Perform practice tests regularly to track your improvement in each event. Identify your weak areas and work on them.
- Rest and Recovery: Don’t forget to rest and recover between workouts. Overtraining can lead to injury, which will hurt your progress.
- Follow a Structured Plan: Create a workout routine that targets each of the six events. This will help you build strength, endurance, and agility for the test.
- Fuel Your Body: Proper nutrition and hydration are essential for gaining peak performance. Eat a balanced diet and drink as much water you can to stay energized and focused.
Conclusion: Master the ACFT Scoring Chart
The ACFT scoring chart is an essential tool for understanding how your performance is evaluated. Knowing how points are awarded for each event will help you identify areas for improvement and ensure you’re fully prepared for test day.
By focusing on each event, training consistently, and tracking your progress, you’ll be ready to earn a high score on the ACFT and meet the Army’s fitness standards. Keep working hard, stay focused, and you’ll achieve your goals!
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