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6d ago

U.S. Army Introduces Gender-Neutral Fitness Test for Combat Roles

The Army Fitness Test, launching June 2025, eliminates high-injury events and implements sex-neutral scoring for combat specialties starting in 2026.

La Quinta High JROTC Audrina Espinoza, 16, applies camouflage face paint as she participates in the Army Career Fair at the Armed Forces Reserve Center near Moreno Valley, Calif., on Tuesday, Oct. 24, 2023.
The US army is changing its fitness test, according to an internal memo
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Overview

  • The Army Fitness Test (AFT) will replace the Army Combat Fitness Test (ACFT) and introduces uniform physical standards for men and women in combat roles.
  • The phased rollout begins June 1, 2025, with sex-neutral scoring for combat roles effective January 1, 2026, for active-duty soldiers and June 1, 2026, for Reserve and National Guard units.
  • The new test includes five events—deadlift, hand-release push-ups, sprint-drag-carry, plank, and a two-mile run—while removing the standing power throw due to injury concerns.
  • Combat-focused soldiers in 21 military occupational specialties (MOSes) will need to meet a higher minimum score of 350, with at least 60 points per event, compared to a 300 minimum for noncombat roles.
  • Army leadership asserts the revised standards will enhance readiness without significantly impacting retention, despite concerns over potential challenges for female soldiers.