Understanding the Army’s Three Current Fitness Tests: AFT, CFT, and RPAT

What's Happening

• •The Army currently administers three fitness tests: the Army Combat Fitness Test (ACFT), the Army Fitness Test (AFT), and the Recruit Physical Assessment Test (RPAT).
• •Each test has specific requirements and is aimed at different groups within the Army.
• •Changes to these fitness tests have been implemented to enhance soldier readiness and operational effectiveness.

Why It Matters

Fitness assessments are crucial for maintaining soldier readiness and ensuring that all service members can perform their duties effectively. Understanding the current tests and their requirements helps soldiers prepare adequately, which is essential for operational success.

What Changes Now

• •The ACFT has been established as the primary fitness test for soldiers. This change requires all soldiers to incorporate specific training for the six events of the ACFT into their routines.
• •Soldiers must familiarize themselves with the AFT requirements if applicable to their unit. Understanding these criteria will ensure they are prepared for their annual fitness assessments.
• •The RPAT serves as a critical assessment for new recruits entering the Army. This means recruits must focus on their physical training to meet the standards before starting basic training.

What to Watch

• •The Army plans to release updated fitness testing protocols by the end of the fiscal year. Soldiers should stay informed about any changes that may affect their training and assessment schedules.
• •Feedback from soldiers regarding the ACFT will be analyzed to refine standards further. This ongoing evaluation process may lead to adjustments in the test's events or scoring criteria.
• •Unit-specific announcements regarding fitness test schedules and requirements will be crucial for soldiers. Keeping an eye on these updates will help ensure compliance and readiness.

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More Context

• •Overview of the Fitness Tests: The Army Combat Fitness Test (ACFT) is designed to assess a soldier's physical readiness for combat. It includes six events: deadlifts, standing power throws, hand-release push-ups, sprint-drag-carry, leg tucks, and a two-mile run. The Army Fitness Test (AFT) focuses on basic physical fitness and is often used for annual assessments. The Recruit Physical Assessment Test (RPAT) serves as an entry-level evaluation for new recruits, measuring their ability to meet the physical demands of basic training.
• •Who is Affected?: Active duty soldiers, particularly those in combat arms MOSs such as 11B (Infantryman) and 19K (Armor Crewman), are directly impacted by these tests. Additionally, Reserve Component soldiers, including those in the 68W (Health Care Specialist) and 42A (Human Resources Specialist) roles, must also prepare for these assessments to maintain their readiness and fulfill their duties.
• •What Changes Now?: The implementation of the ACFT as the primary fitness assessment means soldiers must adapt their training regimens to meet new standards. This change requires soldiers to focus on strength and endurance training to excel in the six events of the ACFT. The AFT remains an option for certain soldiers, but they must ensure they are aware of the specific criteria that apply to their unit or role.
• •What to Watch: Upcoming evaluations will continue to refine the ACFT standards based on feedback from soldiers and performance data. The Army is expected to release updated guidance on fitness training and testing protocols by the end of the fiscal year. Soldiers should monitor their unit's announcements for any changes to the testing schedule or requirements.

Key Takeaways

• •The Army administers three fitness tests: ACFT, AFT, and RPAT.
• •Active duty and Reserve Component soldiers must adapt their training to meet new standards.
• •Ongoing updates to fitness testing protocols will be released based on soldier feedback.