Are you seeking how to surpass the 2023 ACFT standards? If so, welcome to RunDreamAchieve. I hope that the resources you will find here will help you score higher in the 6 events of the test. I have also created a running course for those seeking to run faster for 2 miles on the Army Combat Fitness Test (ACFT). You can click on any of the green buttons on this post to learn more about it.
The Army Combat Fitness Test (ACFT) is an exercise-based physical fitness assessment. The ACFT was created by the U.S. Army Research Institute of Environmental Medicine. In addition, with assistance from the Center for Individual Military Training (CIMT).
The Army created these new standards to aid Soldiers in maintaining their health, fitness and readiness. They are based on 630,000 sample ACFT test scores, the RAND independent assessment and feedback from Soldiers.
What Are the ACFT Standards?
The Army Combat Fitness Test (ACFT) is a physical assessment of a Soldier's readiness to serve in the Army. It measures muscular strength, muscular endurance, power, speed, agility, coordination, flexibility, balance and aerobic capacity.
The ACFT was developed with research and independent reviews. In addition, feedback from Soldiers taking the test. It provides a more accurate measure of physical readiness than the legacy Army Physical Fitness Test (APFT), which assessed only three events.
In 2022, the Army will transition all six APFT events to the ACFT. This includes the 3-repetition maximum deadlift, standing power throw, hand-release push-up, sprint drag carry leg tuck or plank and two mile run.
As part of these changes, the Army is replacing leg tucks with planks – a more accurate core assessment tool. Also, this exercise will guarantee all Soldiers' core strength is measured consistently and equally.
The Army will implement the ACFT standards into personnel policy gradually and deliberately. In addition, allow all Soldiers time to adjust to the new scoring scale. Doing so may prevent any negative repercussions for certain occupational specialties in recruiting or retention efforts.
LEARN MORE ABOUT OUR PRIVATE, MEMBERSHIP COMMUNITYWhat are the 3 Mandatory ACFT Events?
ACFT events require three mandatory events: 3-Repetition Maximum Deadlift (MDL), Sprint-Drag-Carry and the 2-Mile Run. Soldiers may opt to take an alternate cardiovascular event such as a 15,000 meter bike, 5,000 meter row or 1,000 meter swim.
The 3-Repetition Maximum Deadlift tests participants' back and leg muscles' ability to safely and effectively lift heavy objects such as ammunition boxes or wounded soldiers from the ground. This event serves to assess participants' strength, balance, and flexibility levels.
At this event, soldiers must position their feet shoulder-width apart and center within the hexagon-trap bar. They then bend at their hips, knees, and feet to grasp hold of the handles in the middle.
Perform three consecutive reps of the deadlift. If you don't manage all three reps, then try again with a lighter weight.
The 3-Repeat Maximum Deadlift is an effective way to build strength and endurance before taking on the ACFT for record attempts. But it may be challenging when done for the first time, so make sure you receive adequate assistance in preparation.
What is the Deadlift for ACFT Standards 2022?
If you're searching for an effective strength training exercise to increase your overall strength and fitness levels, the deadlift is a great choice. Remember, this exercise be done in the gym. Also, at home or in your backyard. The acft standards will lessen the fitter you become. so, focus on building your endurance, strength and stamina each week.
For the deadlift, you'll use a trap bar and weight plate. Start in a straddle stance with your feet shoulder-width apart, and then bend at the knees and hips to grab hold of the center handles.
After each repetition, you'll lift the bar three times and return to your starting position. Take a two-minute break between each repetition.
If you don't succeed in lifting the weight three times, you can try again at a higher weight; however, you must finish repetitions within two minutes or when your grader deems it safe. The service members will receive a scorecard and your grader will record how many correct repetitions were performed. Afterward, you will move onto the next test event.
What is the ACFT Time Limit?
The Army Combat Fitness Test (ACFT) is a multi-event, age and gender performance-normed comprehensive fitness assessment developed and designed by senior Army leaders. The ACFT assesses Soldiers' muscular strength, endurance, power, speed, coordination, flexibility, balance and aerobic capacity.
According to the Army, the ACFT is designed to give Soldiers a comprehensive evaluation of physical fitness. So, they can meet basic minimum standards required for safe and efficient military operations. These criteria will help maintain an Army combat-ready force while decreasing injury rates and attrition.
In response to accusations that the ACFT discriminates against women, the Army recently relaxed some event criteria. Thus, added a 2.5-mile walk as an alternate aerobic event for Soldiers. Also, supporting those who are physically unable to complete a two-mile run.
Additionally, the Army has implemented an objective, gender-neutral test with minimal differences for enlisted soldiers and warrant officers. This evaluation is based on a physical demand category outlined in DA PAM 611-21; it does not constitute a competition but simply requires all service members to meet basic minimum standards that can be met on a gender-neutral battlefield.
How Many Times Can You Fail the ACFT?
Soldiers must pass the Army Combat Fitness Test (ACFT) before they graduate from Basic Combat Training and during Advanced Individual Training (AIT). Furthermore, your ACFT scores will be added to your permanent records.
In 2019, a RAND study challenged the validity of data from the Army's tests. The result was that it led to its removal as an assessment tool for general physical fitness. Furthermore, that it did not predict success on military tasks, according to a statement issued Wednesday by the service.
Changes to the test include gender and age-normed scoring tables. For example, a plank as the sole exercise to assess core strength. Also, an alternate aerobic event of 2.5 miles for troops whose medical profiles prevent running. These modifications were created through independent analysis and feedback from soldiers.
How Many Push-Ups Do You Have to do for the ACFT?
The Army Fitness Test of the past is being replaced with the Army Combat Fitness Test (ACFT). The new ACFT emphasizes more tactical fitness elements. To prepare for this new assessment, soldiers should focus on exercises that develop muscular strength and power, cardiovascular endurance, muscular stamina, core strength as well as speed and agility.
The ACFT offers various events, such as 3-rep-max trap-bar deadlifts, backward medicine ball throws for distance and timed planks to replace sit-ups. In addition, two minutes of hand-release push-ups and a two-mile run, each scored from 0 to 100 depending on how well you perform them.
Your score is adjusted based on gender and age group.
The ACFT requires a minimum score of 60 points to pass, with a maximum score of 100 possible. Soldiers must lift 140 pounds for the strength deadlift and throw an Olympic-length power throw. Also, perform 30 hand-release pushups, sprint, drag and carry for 2 minutes. Lastly, run 21 minutes, 7 seconds to complete the test. Of course, run times will be based on age and gender, respectfully.
LEARN MORE ABOUT OUR TRAINING PLANSWhat is the ACFT 2 Mile Run Time?
The Two-Mile Run (or 2MR) is the sole event on the ACFT that tests aerobic endurance. Achieving success here indicates you are an accomplished runner and can handle physical demands of serving in the Army.
The 2MR is an outdoor race that must be completed on a flat, measured course. You may opt for either a track, out-and-back route, or road. As there is only five minutes between LTK and 2MR, having an efficient run time is key. Make sure to subscribe to the RunDreamAchieve YouTube channel. I focus on creating new videos each week to help civilians as well as military surpass their fitness goals.
If you're not a particularly fast runner, wearing running flats instead of trainers for this event can help save some time on each mile. These shoes will save you several seconds per mile in total time.
Soldiers looking to train for the ACFT should start with the Two-Mile Run as it is an accessible goal. Furthermore, this race provides an ideal chance to build base aerobic fitness so you can pass other events on the ACFT with ease.
What Happens if You Fail Record ACFT?
Failure to pass the record ACFT can have a severe impact on your career. Soldiers may not be eligible for promotions or school. Also, be expelled from the Army due to ineptitude. So, focus on doing the very best that you can on this physical fitness test. Remember, it takes between 21 days to 4 weeks for the body to adapt to any stress load being placed on it. So, be patient with yourself. The good news is that the ACFT standards can be surpassed.
The ACFT is a fitness test designed to evaluate strength, endurance and stamina. It consists of six events: maximum deadlift, standing power throw, hand-release push-up, sprint/drag/carry, plank and 2-mile run.
Each event requires a minimum score of 60 points to pass the test. In certain events, this standard was reduced for gender and age groups due to changes in fitness requirements.
Soldiers have up to 180 days from test failure to retake the exam. Additionally, they may have 240 days from when they failed their last time to retest if their commander believes that they have sufficiently reconditioned.
Commanders may flag Soldiers who fail two tests in a row and suspend favorable personnel actions until they pass an ACFT record. However, any Soldier who fails the ACFT on or after 1 October 2022 for RA/USAR (AGR), and on or after 1 April 2023 for RC (less USAR (AGR), will be separated.
Closing Thoughts
I hope this post on the ACFT standards has been helpful to you. Make sure to check out the resources available here at RunDreamAchieve. My hope is that the running courses, training plans and monthly coaching options will assist you.
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