The Army Combat Fitness Test (ACFT) is a rigorous physical fitness test that evaluates soldiers’ strength, endurance, agility, and overall fitness. One of the key features of the ACFT is that it includes age group standards to ensure fairness and account for the natural differences in physical capabilities as soldiers age. This means the Army adjusts the scoring requirements for different age groups to give each soldier a fair chance based on their age.
Here we’ll break down the ACFT age group standards, explain how they affect your score, and give you helpful tips for preparing to meet the standards for your age group.
What Are the ACFT Age Group Standards?
The ACFT has different performance standards based on age and gender. These standards help ensure that soldiers of different ages are held to fair and achievable physical fitness requirements. The ACFT includes six events, and each event has different scoring ranges based on your age group and gender.
There are six age categories used to determine the standards for each event. These categories are:
- 17-21 years old
- 22-26 years old
- 27-31 years old
- 32-36 years old
- 37-41 years old
- 42+ years old
In each of these age groups, there are specific minimum and maximum standards for the six ACFT events: Deadlift, Standing Power Throw, Hand-Release Push-Ups, Sprint-Drag-Carry, Leg Tuck, and the 2-Mile Run. These standards are set to ensure that each soldier’s physical performance is evaluated fairly.
The Six ACFT Events and Their Age Group Standards
Let’s take a closer look at how the ACFT age group standards are applied to each of the six events in the test:
1. Deadlift
The Deadlift tests lower body strength. For this event, soldiers must lift a specific weight from the ground to a standing position. The weight requirements for the Deadlift vary by age group.
Age Group Standards for Deadlift:
- 17-21 years old: 140–340 lbs.
- 22-26 years old: 140–340 lbs.
- 27-31 years old: 140–340 lbs.
- 32-36 years old: 140–340 lbs.
- 37-41 years old: 140–340 lbs.
- 42+ years old: 140–340 lbs.
Scoring:
The more weight you can lift, the higher your score. For example, lifting 140 pounds might get you 60 points, while lifting the maximum weight of 340 pounds will earn you 100 points.
2. Standing Power Throw
The Standing Power Throw measures explosive power. Soldiers throw a 10-pound medicine ball backward as far as they can.
Age Group Standards for Power Throw:
- 17-21 years old: 4.5–12.5 meters
- 22-26 years old: 4.5–12.5 meters
- 27-31 years old: 4.5–12.5 meters
- 32-36 years old: 4.5–12.5 meters
- 37-41 years old: 4.5–12.5 meters
- 42+ years old: 4.5–12.5 meters
Scoring:
The farther you throw the medicine ball, the higher your score. A throw of 4.5 meters might earn you 60 points, while throwing it the maximum distance of 12.5 meters would earn you 100 points.
3. Hand-Release Push-Ups
Hand-release push-ups test upper body strength and endurance. Unlike regular push-ups, you must fully lower your body to the ground and lift your hands off the ground before pushing back up.
Age Group Standards for Push-Ups:
- 17-21 years old: 10–60 push-ups
- 22-26 years old: 10–60 push-ups
- 27-31 years old: 10–60 push-ups
- 32-36 years old: 10–60 push-ups
- 37-41 years old: 10–60 push-ups
- 42+ years old: 10–60 push-ups
Scoring:
The more push-ups you can perform, the higher your score. For example, 10 push-ups might earn you 60 points, while 60 push-ups will earn you the maximum 100 points.
4. Sprint-Drag-Carry (SDC)
The Sprint-Drag-Carry (SDC) event tests speed, strength, and agility. Soldiers must sprint, drag a sled, and carry kettlebells, all while maintaining speed and proper form.
Age Group Standards for SDC:
- 17-21 years old: 3:35–2:30 minutes
- 22-26 years old: 3:35–2:30 minutes
- 27-31 years old: 3:35–2:30 minutes
- 32-36 years old: 3:35–2:30 minutes
- 37-41 years old: 3:35–2:30 minutes
- 42+ years old: 3:35–2:30 minutes
Scoring:
The faster you complete the SDC, the higher your score. For example, completing the SDC in 3:35 minutes might earn you 60 points, while completing it in 2:30 minutes would earn you 100 points.
5. Leg Tuck
The Leg Tuck event 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.
Age Group Standards for Leg Tuck:
- 17-21 years old: 1–20 leg tucks
- 22-26 years old: 1–20 leg tucks
- 27-31 years old: 1–20 leg tucks
- 32-36 years old: 1–20 leg tucks
- 37-41 years old: 1–20 leg tucks
- 42+ years old: 1–20 leg tucks
Scoring:
Each successful leg tuck earns you points. For example, completing 1 leg tuck might earn you 60 points, while completing 20 leg tucks will earn you the maximum 100 points.
6. 2-Mile Run
The 2-Mile Run tests cardiovascular endurance. Soldiers are required to run two miles as quickly as possible.
Age Group Standards for 2-Mile Run:
- 17-21 years old (Male): 21:00–12:30 minutes
- 22-26 years old (Male): 21:00–12:30 minutes
- 27-31 years old (Male): 21:00–12:30 minutes
- 32-36 years old (Male): 21:00–12:30 minutes
- 37-41 years old (Male): 23:00–14:00 minutes
- 42+ years old (Male): 23:00–14:00 minutes
- 17-21 years old (Female): 23:00–14:00 minutes
- 22-26 years old (Female): 23:00–14:00 minutes
- 27-31 years old (Female): 23:00–14:00 minutes
- 32-36 years old (Female): 23:00–14:00 minutes
- 37-41 years old (Female): 23:00–14:00 minutes
- 42+ years old (Female): 23:00–14:00 minutes
Scoring:
The faster you run the 2 miles, the higher your score. For example, running the 2 miles in 21:00 minutes (for males) might earn you 60 points, while running it in 12:30 minutes will earn you 100 points.
Tips for Meeting the ACFT Age Group Standards
To meet the ACFT age group standards and achieve a high score, here are some tips:
- Create a Structured Training Plan: Focus on exercises that target strength, endurance, agility, and cardiovascular fitness.
- Practice Each Event: Regularly practice each event to familiarize yourself with the movements and improve your performance.
- Focus on Weak Areas: Identify areas where you need the most improvement (e.g., the 2-mile run or the leg tuck) and put extra effort into training those areas.
- Rest and Recover: Don’t neglect recovery. Proper rest, hydration, and nutrition are crucial for optimal performance.
- Monitor Your Progress: Keep track of your performance over time. Use practice tests to measure your improvement and adjust your training plan accordingly.
Conclusion: Meeting Your ACFT Age Group Standards
The ACFT age group standards are designed to ensure fairness in the evaluation of soldiers’ physical fitness. By understanding the specific requirements for your age group and focusing on the key events, you can improve your chances of scoring well and passing the test.
Whether you’re a young soldier in the 17-21 age group or an older soldier in the 42+ category, following a well-rounded training plan will help you meet the ACFT standards and excel in the test. Good luck, and keep pushing yourself to improve your fitness!
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