Physical Fitness Standards for Joining the Military

Hey guys, so I'm considering joining the military after saying sayonara to high school. Just curious, what level of physical fitness would I need to qualify? Should I start training now or...?

It's excellent that you're thinking ahead about the physical fitness standards for joining the military. These standards vary depending on the branch of the military (Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, or Coast Guard), and they not only include general requirements, but also have specifics based on gender and age.

One common physical fitness test consists of three elements: push-ups, sit-ups, and a timed run. The number of repetitions and timing depend on gender, age, and the specific branch of the military. For instance, the Army requires men aged 17-21 to do 35 push-ups, 47 sit-ups, and a two-mile run in 16:36 minutes, while women of the same age group are expected to do 13 push-ups, 47 sit-ups, and the two-mile run in 19:42 minutes.

While you didn't specify which branch you're interested in, I'd strongly recommend starting to train now to get into shape, especially aerobic conditioning and strength training. This will make it much easier to meet (and exceed) the physical fitness standards when the time comes.

Reaching out to a local recruiter or visiting the website of the specific branch you're interested in can provide more detailed and tailored information about the exact fitness requirements. They can also provide advice about training programs and schedules to help you prepare.

Remember, being physically fit is only part of the requirement for joining the military. They'll also assess your emotional resilience, teamwork skills, and motivation, as well as academic qualifications for certain roles. Therefore, consider adopting a holistic approach towards your preparation.