In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the ACFT standards and how the scoring system works and provide training tips to help you perform at your best—whether you’re a soldier preparing for assessment or a fitness enthusiast curious about military-level training.
✅ What is the Army Combat Fitness Test?
The ACFT replaced the legacy Army Physical Fitness Test (APFT), which only measured push-ups, sit-ups, and a 2-mile run. The ACFT evaluates six events that simulate combat-related physical demands and better reflect real-world military tasks.
🏋️ The 6 ACFT Events
Here are the six test components in order:
3-Repetition Maximum Deadlift (MDL)
Purpose: Tests lower-body strength (hips, legs, and back).
Equipment: Hex bar and weights
Goal: Lift maximum weight for 3 reps.
Standing Power Throw (SPT)
Purpose: Measures explosive power using the upper and lower body.
Equipment: 10-lb medicine ball
Goal: Throw the ball backward over the head as far as possible.
Hand-Release Push-Ups (HRP)
Purpose: Measures upper-body muscular endurance.
Rules: Complete push-ups with hands lifting from the ground at each rep.
Sprint-Drag-Carry (SDC)
Purpose: Evaluates agility, anaerobic capacity, and functional strength.
It involves 50-meter sprints, dragging a sled, lateral shuffles, and carrying kettlebells.
Plank Hold (PLK) (replaced leg tuck in 2023)
Purpose: Core strength and muscular endurance.
Goal: Maintain a proper plank position as long as possible.
Two-Mile Run (2MR)
Purpose: Assesses aerobic endurance.
Goal: Complete the run as fast as possible.
📊 ACFT 2025 Scoring Standards
Each event is scored on a 0–100 point scale. The maximum total score is 600 points. To pass, soldiers must score at least 60 points in each event, totaling 360 points or more.
➤ Scoring Categories
60 points (minimum): Passing
70–89 points: Good performance
90–100 points: Excellent/Maximum
Example of Male ACFT Passing Scores (Ages 17–21):
Event 60 pts 100 pts
Deadlift 140 lbs, 340 lbs
Standing Power Throw 4.5 m 12.5 m
Hand-Release Push-Ups 10 60
Sprint-Drag-Carry 3:00 1:33
Plank Hold 1:30 4:20
Two-Mile Run 21:00 13:30
⚠️ Note: Standards may vary slightly based on gender and age. Always refer to the latest Army ACFT guidelines.
🧠 ACFT vs. APFT: What's the Difference?
Criteria: APFT, ACFT
Events 3 6
Focus Endurance only. Strength, power, agility, and cardio
Equipment Bodyweight only Weights, sled, medicine ball
Scoring Gender-based Gender- and age-neutral (as of 2025)
Objective General fitness Combat task readiness
The ACFT is more physically demanding and better aligned with actual combat scenarios, which is why it has become the new standard.
🏃 Training Tips to Ace the ACFT
To perform well on the ACFT, you need a balanced fitness plan that incorporates
1. Strength Training
Focus on deadlifts, squats, and shoulder presses to prepare for the MDL and SDC.
Train with a hex bar if available, or simulate with regular barbell deadlifts.
2. Explosive Power
Do medicine ball throws, box jumps, and plyometrics to improve your standing power throw.
3. Endurance & Core
Practice planks, sit-ups, and flutter kicks for core endurance.
Incorporate tempo running and intervals for the 2-mile run.
4. Agility & Speed
Perform shuttle runs, farmer’s carries, and sled pulls.
Mimic the SDC sequence in your workouts.
Do hand-release push-up variations, focusing on form and volume.
Include triceps dips and chest presses to build upper-body strength.
📅 Sample Weekly ACFT Training Plan
Day Focus
Monday: Strength + Push-ups
Tuesday Sprint-Drag-Carry + Plank
Wednesday Run + Core
Thursday Power Throw + Upper Body
Friday: Deadlifts + Mobility
Saturday Long Run + Recovery Stretch
Sunday Rest or Light Mobility
🧩 Bonus Tips
✅ Track your scores during practice to monitor progress.
✅ Simulate the full ACFT monthly to build endurance across events.
✅ Stay hydrated and stretch before and after each session.
✅ Fuel your body with high-protein meals and complex carbs.
🎯 Final Thoughts
The Army Combat Fitness Test 2025 isn’t just a fitness test—it’s a reflection of a soldier’s overall combat readiness. With the right preparation, dedication, and smart training, you can not only pass but excel in all six events. Use the standards and tips in this guide as your roadmap toward success.
Ready to start your ACFT training? Stay consistent, train smart, and push your limits—the battlefield demands the best version of you.
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