What are the physical requirements for Naval Academy admissions?

I'm thinking about applying to the Naval Academy, and I'm curious about the physical test requirements. How intensive is the PFA (Physical Fitness Assessment)? Any advice on preparing for it?

As an applicant to the United States Naval Academy, you're required to pass the Candidate Fitness Assessment (CFA), which is designed to measure your overall physical fitness. The components of the CFA are as follows:

1. Basketball throw: Performed from a kneeling position, and tests for power and coordination.

2. Pull-ups/Flexed arm hang: Men do pull-ups, while women can choose either pull-ups or the flexed-arm hang. This component tests upper body strength.

3. Shuttle Run: This measures your speed and agility.

4. Crunches: You'll do these for two minutes, assessing abdominal and core strength.

5. Push-ups: Done for two minutes to test upper body strength.

6. Mile run: This component measures aerobic capacity.

The scores for each event are compiled to give an overall fitness score. Although the academy doesn't publish specific minimum scores, the rates are competitive, so the better your scores, the greater your chances of admission.

To prepare for the CFA, I would recommend a consistent and well-rounded fitness regimen that includes strength training, endurance building, and agility drills. It's also important to practice each specific component of the CFA to familiarize yourself with the test. Remember that the physical requirements of the Naval Academy are just one aspect of the overall admissions process, and let this preparation be a motivating factor, not a source of worry.