Basic physical requirements for joining the military?

Hey everyone, I've been considering a military career after high school. I'm pretty active but I want to make sure I'm on top of the physical fitness standards. Can someone enlighten me on what the basic physical requirements are for someone wanting to join the military right out of high school?

The basic physical requirements to join the military can vary depending on the branch - Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Air Force, Coast Guard. However, generally, they all involve aspects of physical fitness, health, and body composition. Here are some common requirements:

1. Age: You need to be at least 17 years to join any branch of the military. For some branches, the upper age limit can be as high as 42 years.

2. Height & Weight: Each branch has its height and weight standards. Overall, these boundaries are based on a healthy body mass index (BMI).

3. Physical Fitness Test: All the branches conduct a Physical Fitness Test (PFT). The exact components of the test can vary, but they typically include push-ups, sit-ups, and a timed run. For instance, in the Army, the Army Combat Fitness Test (ACFT) includes a deadlift, a standing power throw, hand-release push-ups, a sprint-drag-carry, leg tuck, and a 2-mile run. The Marine Corps includes pull-ups, crunches, and a 3-mile run in their PFT.

4. Medical Health: Generally, you must be in good health to join the military. A thorough medical examination will be conducted to screen for any disqualifying conditions. This exam looks at a recruit's hearing, vision, blood, urine, physical abnormalities, and even a recruit's mental health.

It's advised that you start training for these physical tests well before you plan on enlisting. That could mean incorporating strength training, aerobic conditioning, and specific exercises like pushups and sit-ups into your fitness routine.

Remember that while meeting basic requirements is the first step, exceeding these can enhance your opportunities within the military, as well as your overall performance during basic training and beyond. Keep in mind that having a certain level of physical fitness can also potentially open up more possibilities in terms of specialized roles within the military.