So, I'm a bit of a fitness freak and I'm thinking of joining the military after I graduate. I do understand that I have to pass certain physical requirements. What's the physical fitness criteria for each branch? Do they all have the same physical standards or does it differ from one to another?
Great question! The physical fitness standards indeed vary between the different branches of the U.S. Military. Here's a brief overview:
1. Army: The Army Physical Fitness Test currently requires soldiers to complete three main events: a timed two-mile run, push-ups, and sit-ups. Scoring is then based on categories like age and gender. In October 2020, the Army transitioned to the Army Combat Fitness Test (ACFT), which measures soldiers' physical readiness for combat tasks. The ACFT consists of six events, including a maximum deadlift, standing power throw, hand-release push-ups, a sprint-drag-carry, leg tuck, and a two-mile run.
2. Marine Corps: The Marine Corps Physical Fitness Test (PFT) involves a timed three-mile run, pull-ups or push-ups, and crunches. Marines are assessed on a points system based on performance in each category.
3. Navy: The Navy Physical Readiness Test measures muscular endurance and aerobic capacity in push-ups, sit-ups, and a 1.5-mile run. The requirements change slightly based on age and gender. Additionally, the Navy has introduced a plank exercise as part of the test for core strength.
4. Air Force: The Air Force's Physical Fitness Test also includes a 1.5-mile run, one minute of push-ups, and one minute of sit-ups. The scoring is adjusted for gender and age as well.
5. Coast Guard: The Coast Guard's Physical Fitness Assessment includes push-ups, sit-ups, and either a 1.5-mile run or 500-yard swim. The scoring is also based on gender and age categories.
6. Space Force: Considering it's a new branch, the Space Force currently adopts the Air Force's physical requirements as mentioned above.
Remember, these are just the basic physical fitness tests. Each branch may also require additional job-specific physical and medical standards. It's always worth looking into the specific standards of the branch you're interested in for the most accurate information.
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