Physical prerequisites for military enlistment?

Hello everyone. I am strongly considering enlisting after high school and wanted to get a sense of the physical demands. What fitness standards should I be meeting to even have a shot at this? Is there like, a weight or strength requirement that the military generally looks for? Is there a fitness test or something?

While physical requirements can vary somewhat based on the branch of the military you're interested in, there are some general physical fitness standards that can give you an idea of what to aim for.

For most branches, you'll be required to take a Physical Fitness Test or PFT. The PFT usually involves a mix of push-ups, sit-ups, and a timed run. The exact number and times required to pass will depend on your age and gender. For instance, the US Army demands a minimum of 33 push-ups for males aged 17-21, 47 sit-ups, and a two-mile run in a maximum of 16:36.

In terms of weight requirements, the military uses a height/weight chart to determine if you're within a healthy range. If you don't fall within these standards, they might measure your body mass index, or BMI.

Building good overall endurance, strength, and body composition would be a reasonable starting point for your training. However, before beginning any fitness program, it's important to check with a healthcare provider to ensure it's safe for you.

Do remember there are other factors that go into military enlistment, like certain education and age requirements, and passing the ASVAB test, so preparing in those areas would also be beneficial.

Remember fitness is only a piece of the puzzle when it comes to military readiness. Mental toughness, discipline, teamwork, and a range of other skills also play a part.

I hope this gives you a better sense of the physical demands of military enlistment. But for the most accurate info, it's a good idea to reach out directly to recruiters from the branches you're interested in. Best of luck in your journey!