ACFT Female Standards

The Army Combat Fitness Test (ACFT) represents a pivotal transformation in the U.S. Army’s approach to assessing the physical readiness and combat capabilities of its soldiers. With the introduction of this comprehensive test, the Army aims to ensure that all personnel, regardless of gender, are prepared for the physical demands of modern warfare.

This article specifically focuses on the ACFT standards for female soldiers, addressing a myriad of questions and concerns surrounding the test. From the comparison with the previous Army Physical Fitness Test (APFT) to the detailed requirements for achieving a perfect score, this guide offers an in-depth look into how the ACFT standards have been tailored to accommodate and accurately assess female soldiers.

Through exploring topics such as gender neutrality, training recommendations, and the impact of pregnancy on test requirements, we aim to provide a thorough understanding of the ACFT’s objectives, challenges, and the Army’s commitment to inclusivity and excellence in physical fitness.

What Are the ACFT Events?

The ACFT consists of six events that are carefully chosen to test different aspects of physical fitness, reflecting the physical demands a soldier might face in combat. These events are:

• 3-Repetition Maximum Deadlift (MDL): This event measures lower body strength. Soldiers are required to lift the maximum weight possible for three repetitions using a hex bar;
• Standing Power Throw (SPT): Testing explosive power, soldiers throw a 10-pound medicine ball backward as far as possible;
• Hand-Release Push-Up (HRP): This event is an enhanced version of the traditional push-up, designed to assess upper body endurance. Soldiers must lift their hands off the ground briefly at the bottom of each push-up;
• Sprint-Drag-Carry (SDC): Mimicking battlefield movements, this event consists of a series of sprints, drags, and carries over a 50-meter course;
• Leg Tuck (LTK): Soldiers must hang from a pull-up bar and raise their knees up to their elbows as many times as possible, testing core strength;
• Two-Mile Run (2MR): This event assesses cardiovascular endurance, requiring soldiers to complete a two-mile run as quickly as possible;

Why Is There The Division Of Male and Female ACFT Standards?

The division of ACFT standards between male and female soldiers has been a subject of significant discussion and analysis. This differentiation is rooted in the recognition of physiological differences between genders that can impact physical performance. The Army’s goal is to ensure that all soldiers, regardless of gender, are combat-ready while also providing a fair assessment of their physical capabilities.

By establishing separate standards, the Army aims to:

• Acknowledge Biological Differences: Scientific research indicates that, on average, men and women have differences in muscle mass, strength, and cardiovascular endurance. The differentiated standards take these variations into account, aiming to be equitable in evaluating physical fitness;
• Maintain Combat Readiness: The primary goal of the ACFT is to ensure every soldier is physically prepared for the demands of combat. The gender-specific standards are designed to assess this readiness accurately, without compromising the Army’s operational effectiveness;
• Promote Inclusivity and Fairness: By adjusting standards, the Army seeks to create a testing environment where all soldiers have an equitable opportunity to succeed, recognizing the diverse makeup of the modern military force;

Are Female ACFT Standards Easier or Harder Than Male Ones?

The question of whether female ACFT standards are easier or harder than male ones is complex and depends on various factors, including the individual soldier’s training, physical condition, and the specific event in question.

Here’s a closer examination:

• Relative to Physical Capabilities: The adjusted standards for female soldiers are intended to be equally challenging relative to their average physical capabilities. While the raw scores required for women might be lower for some events, these scores are designed to represent an equivalent level of effort and fitness when accounting for physiological differences;
• Training and Preparation: Success in the ACFT is heavily influenced by how well a soldier trains for the test. Both male and female soldiers who tailor their training to the specific demands of the ACFT can improve their performance, potentially narrowing any perceived gaps between gender-based standards;
• Individual Variability: It’s important to note that there is considerable overlap in physical capabilities within genders. Some women outperform men in certain ACFT events, and vice versa. The standards are generalizations and may not reflect the abilities of every individual soldier;

ACFT Scoring Scale For Women

The ACFT scores on a scale from 0 to 100, with a minimum of 60 points required in each event to pass for active-duty soldiers. The test consists of six events: the three-repetition maximum deadlift, standing power throw, hand-release push-ups, sprint-drag-carry, leg tuck, and two-mile run. Each of these events is scored separately, with the total score being the sum of all six event scores.

As of March 23, 2022, the ACFT scoring scales have been updated. For instance, a female soldier achieving a 12.6 in the two-mile run or an 8.4 in the sprint-drag-carry event would receive a full 100 points. Similarly, a 13.0 in the two-mile run or an 8.5 in the sprint-drag-carry would also equate to 100 points.

The grading scales vary slightly depending on the age group. For example, a female soldier aged between 17-21 achieving a maximum deadlift (MDL) of 210 lbs would score 100 points. This increases to 230 lbs for those aged 22-26, remaining at 230 lbs for those aged 27 and above.

It’s worth noting that the new age and gender performance-normed scoring scales were developed using data from nearly 630,000 ACFT scores and historic performance. This ensures that the test is fair and representative of the physical capabilities of soldiers across various age groups and genders.

Moreover, soldiers who have never taken a record APFT (in DTMS) will be awarded a minimum passing ACFT score (360 points) effective March 31, 2023 [1]. This temporary measure aims to ease the transition towards the new testing standards.

The ACFT has been a subject of much debate and analysis since its introduction. While it’s designed to be gender-neutral, research has shown that women, on average, score lower than men. This has led to calls for a reevaluation of the scoring system to ensure it doesn’t disproportionately disadvantage female soldiers.

Remember, the ACFT is more than just a test; it’s a measure of your readiness to serve and protect. So train hard, stay focused, and aim for the best score you can achieve.

ACFT Body Fat Assessment Exemption for Women

The Army Combat Fitness Test (ACFT) is a comprehensive physical fitness assessment that measures the overall health and readiness of soldiers in the United States Army. It’s designed to reflect the physical demands soldiers may face in combat.

Regarding body fat assessments, the Army Regulation (AR) 600-9, also known as the Army Body Composition Program (ABCP), provides the guidelines. Soldiers are required to maintain certain body fat percentages, which vary based on age and gender. For female soldiers aged 17-20, the maximum allowable body fat percentage is 30%, and this increases slightly with age.

However, there are exceptions to these standards. Soldiers who exceed the body fat allowance but meet the physical readiness test standards and show no evidence of associated pathological conditions are allowed to continue their service while enrolled in a weight control program. Notably, this is not an exemption but rather an allowance for individuals to work towards meeting the body fat standards.

Furthermore, there are specific exemptions for pregnant and postpartum soldiers. According to AR 600-9, female soldiers who are pregnant or postpartum are exempt from the ABCP during pregnancy and for 180 days following the end of pregnancy. They are also exempt from taking the ACFT during this period [2].

In some cases, medical exemptions may also be granted. These are typically for soldiers who have a diagnosed medical condition that prevents them from achieving the required body fat percentages. A medical exemption must be approved by a healthcare provider and the commander.

Remember, the goal of the ACFT and the ABCP is not just about meeting a standard, but about ensuring that every soldier is physically ready and capable of meeting the demands of their duty.

ACFT Female Standards (Scores) for Major Events:

3 Repetition Maximum Deadlift (MDL)

• Assessed Fitness Components: The MDL event assesses lower-body strength, particularly targeting the muscles of the legs, hips, and lower back. This event is crucial for tasks requiring lifting, carrying, and moving heavy equipment or personnel;
• Standard Equipment: The MDL requires a hexagonal barbell (hex bar) and weights. The hex bar is preferred for its design, which allows for a more natural lifting position, reducing the risk of injury;
• Proper Technique: Soldiers must stand inside the hex bar, grasp the handles with a neutral grip (palms facing inward), and lift the weight off the ground until they reach full standing position, with knees and hips fully extended. The movement should be smooth and controlled, without any jerking or “bouncing” of the weight;
• Female Standards (Scores): For women, lifting 140 lbs scores 60 points, while lifting 340 lbs gives a full 100 points;

Standing Power Throw (SPT):

• Assessed Fitness Components: The SPT measures explosive strength and power, particularly in the legs and arms. This event is indicative of a soldier’s ability to exert force rapidly, which is essential for tasks such as jumping over obstacles or moving quickly under load;
• Standard Equipment: A 10-pound medicine ball is used for the SPT. The weight and size of the ball are standardized to ensure uniformity in testing conditions;
• Proper Technique: Soldiers start with the medicine ball held at the waist, facing away from the direction of the throw. They then lower into a semi-squat before explosively extending their legs and arms to throw the ball backward over their head as far as possible. The throw should be a fluid motion, combining leg drive and arm extension;
• Female Standards (Scores): A throw of 4.5 meters scores 60 points, while a throw of 9 meters gives a full 100 points [3];

Hand-Release Push-Up (HRP):

• Assessed Fitness Components: The HRP tests upper body endurance and strength, focusing on the chest, shoulders, triceps, and core muscles. This event is relevant for tasks requiring upper body force, such as carrying equipment or hand-to-hand combat;
• Standard Equipment: No special equipment is needed for the HRP, making it a straightforward event to practice and perform;
• Proper Technique: Starting in the traditional push-up position, soldiers lower themselves to the ground, lift their hands briefly off the ground, then push up to return to the starting position. The back must remain straight throughout the exercise, and the chest should touch the ground on each repetition;
• Female Standards (Scores): Completing 10 reps scores 60 points, while completing 60 reps gives a full 100 points;

Sprint-Drag-Carry (SDC):

• Assessed Fitness Components: The SDC is a comprehensive event that measures cardiovascular endurance, muscle strength, and agility. It simulates combat tasks such as moving quickly under fire, dragging wounded personnel, and carrying supplies;
• Standard Equipment: This event requires a 90-pound sled for dragging, two 40-pound kettlebells for the carry portion, and a marked 25-meter lane for the sprints;
• Proper Technique: Soldiers perform five 50-meter shuttles: a sprint, a drag of the sled, a lateral shuffle, a carry of the kettlebells, and a final sprint. The transitions between each shuttle must be quick and efficient, with soldiers ensuring proper grip and posture to avoid injury;
• Female Standards (Scores): Completing the course in 3 minutes, 35 seconds scores 60 points, while completing it in 1 minute, 33 seconds gives a full 100 points;

Plank (PLK):

• Assessed Fitness Components: The PLK tests core muscular endurance, which is essential for maintaining proper posture and stability during various military tasks;
• Standard Equipment: No equipment is necessary for the plank, as it is a bodyweight exercise;
• Proper Technique: Soldiers maintain a plank position with elbows under the shoulders, forearms on the ground, and legs extended. The body should form a straight line from the shoulders to the ankles. Soldiers must hold this position for the required duration to meet the event standard;
• Female Standards (Scores): Holding the plank for 2 minutes, 9 seconds scores 60 points, while holding it for 4 minutes, 20 seconds gives a full 100 points [4];

Two-Mile Run (2MR):

• Assessed Fitness Components: The 2MR evaluates cardiovascular endurance and stamina, reflecting a soldier’s ability to maintain a moderate to high intensity of effort over a distance. This endurance is crucial for long marches or sustained operations;
• Standard Equipment: A measured 2-mile course on a track or a flat, paved path is required for this event. The course should be clearly marked to ensure accuracy in distance;
• Proper Technique: Soldiers should pace themselves to maintain a steady speed throughout the run, focusing on efficient breathing and stride length. It’s important to start at a manageable pace to avoid early fatigue and to finish strong in the latter stages of the race;
• Female Standards (Scores): Completing the run in 21 minutes scores 60 points, while completing it in 13 minutes, 30 seconds gives a full 100 points;

Current ACFT Standards for Females

The ACFT consists of six events: the 3 Repetition Maximum Deadlift (MDL), Standing Power Throw (SPT), Hand-Release Push-Up (HRP), Sprint-Drag-Carry (SDC), Leg Tuck (or Plank as an alternate event), and the Two-Mile Run (2MR). For female soldiers, the standards are adjusted to account for physiological differences between genders.

These standards are stratified across three categories: Moderate (Gold), Significant (Gray), and Heavy (Black), corresponding to the physical demands of various Army MOS (Military Occupational Specialties).

For example, the minimum requirements for a moderate category may include lifting 140 pounds in the MDL, throwing 4.5 meters in the SPT [5], completing 10 hand-release push-ups, finishing the SDC within a certain time frame, executing a minimum number of leg tucks or holding a plank for a specific duration, and running two miles within a set time limit. These standards aim to ensure that all soldiers, regardless of gender, are capable of meeting the physical demands of their roles.

Criticisms of the ACFT Standards for Females

Since its implementation, the ACFT has faced scrutiny, particularly regarding the standards set for female soldiers. Critics argue that while the test seeks to standardize physical fitness across the Army, it may inadvertently disadvantage female soldiers due to inherent physiological differences.

Key criticisms include:

• One-Size-Fits-All Approach: Critics claim that the ACFT’s universal standards, despite adjustments for gender, do not adequately account for the wide variability in individual physical capabilities. This approach might lead to disproportionately high failure rates among female soldiers, potentially affecting their career progression and morale;
• Impact on Female Soldier Retention: There is concern that the rigorous standards could negatively impact the retention of female soldiers. High failure rates or the perception of an unattainable benchmark may discourage women from joining or continuing their service in the Army;
• Physical Training and Injury Risks: The ACFT’s emphasis on strength and power events, such as the MDL and SPT, raises concerns about increased injury risks, particularly for female soldiers who may not have previously trained for these types of activities. Critics argue that without adequate training resources and time, the risk of injury could rise, affecting overall readiness and effectiveness;

Proposed Changes to the ACFT Standards for Females

In response to these criticisms, various stakeholders within the military community have proposed changes to the ACFT standards for females.

These proposals aim to create a more equitable and effective assessment of physical fitness:

• Tailored Training Programs: To address concerns about preparedness and injury prevention, there is a push for tailored training programs that better prepare female soldiers for the ACFT. These programs would focus on gradually building strength, power, and endurance, with an emphasis on technique and injury prevention;
• Adjusting Standards Based on MOS Physical Demands: Another proposal suggests further refining the ACFT standards to more closely align with the physical demands of specific MOS. This approach would involve a more nuanced categorization of roles within the Army, ensuring that the physical fitness assessment is relevant and proportional to the actual demands of a soldier’s duties;
• Reevaluation of Event Scoring: Some have called for a reevaluation of how events are scored, particularly those where physiological differences most significantly impact performance. Adjusting scoring to account for these differences more fairly could help mitigate some of the disadvantages female soldiers face;
• Implementation of a Pilot Phase: Before fully integrating any revised standards, it is proposed that the Army conducts a pilot phase to collect data on performance, injury rates, and overall satisfaction. This data-driven approach would allow for adjustments based on real-world outcomes and feedback from soldiers;
• Inclusive Policy Development: Finally, involving a diverse group of stakeholders in the development and revision of physical fitness standards is crucial. This includes not only fitness experts but also female soldiers who have firsthand experience with the ACFT. Their insights could lead to more practical and equitable standards;

The ACFT represents a significant step forward in the Army’s efforts to ensure its soldiers are combat-ready and physically fit. However, like any major change, it requires ongoing evaluation and adjustment. The criticisms and proposed changes to the ACFT standards for females highlight the need for a flexible approach that recognizes the diverse capabilities and roles of all soldiers. By continuing to refine the ACFT, the Army can uphold its commitment to excellence and inclusivity, ensuring that every soldier has the opportunity to succeed and contribute to their fullest potential.

FAQ:

1. Is the ACFT harder than the APFT?

The ACFT is generally considered more challenging than the APFT because it assesses a broader range of physical abilities, including strength, endurance, and agility, across six events compared to the APFT’s three.

2. When did the ACFT replace the APFT?

The ACFT officially replaced the APFT as the Army’s physical fitness test on October 1, 2020.

3. Are pregnant or postpartum soldiers required to take the ACFT?

Pregnant and postpartum soldiers are not required to take the ACFT. The Army provides specific guidance and exemptions for pregnant and postpartum soldiers, focusing on health and safety.

4. Have any females maxed the ACFT?

Yes, several female soldiers have achieved the maximum score on the ACFT, demonstrating the test’s attainability across gender lines with appropriate training and preparation.

5. What is the ACFT gender standard?

The ACFT introduces gender-neutral standards, meaning all soldiers, regardless of gender, are assessed against the same criteria for each event.

6. Is the ACFT gender-neutral?

Yes, the ACFT is designed to be gender-neutral, with the same scoring standards applied to all soldiers.

7. How hard is it to get a 600 on the ACFT?

Achieving a score of 600, the maximum possible on the ACFT, is challenging and requires a high level of physical fitness and proficiency in all six events.

8. Is the ACFT hard?

The ACFT is designed to be challenging as it measures a broad spectrum of physical fitness components essential for combat readiness. However, with adequate training and preparation, soldiers can successfully meet and exceed the standards.

9. How long is an ACFT valid for?

An ACFT score is typically valid for two years, but this can vary depending on specific Army regulations and any updates to testing policies.

10. How do you get a perfect ACFT score?

Achieving a perfect score on the ACFT requires mastering all six events, which includes maximizing strength, endurance, and technique. Tailored training programs that focus on each event’s specific demands are essential.

11. Can you walk on the ACFT?

While walking during the two-mile run event might impact your score negatively, there are no rules strictly prohibiting walking. However, to achieve a competitive score, maintaining a steady jog or run is advisable.

12. How do you train for the ACFT at home?

Training for the ACFT at home can involve bodyweight exercises, strength training with available weights or resistance bands, and cardiovascular exercises such as running or interval training. Focus on the specific components of each event for targeted improvements.

13. Are Army PT uniforms unisex?

Yes, the Army Physical Fitness Uniform (APFU) is designed to be unisex, with sizes and fits to accommodate all soldiers.

14. What happens if you score a 540 on the ACFT?

Scoring 540 on the ACFT is considered an excellent score, indicating a high level of physical fitness. Scores may influence promotions, selections for certain assignments, and other career development opportunities.

15. How many people fail the ACFT?

The failure rate for the ACFT varies as soldiers adjust to the new standards and training regimens. Initial implementation phases have seen varying rates of failure, with continuous efforts to reduce these through training and education.

16. What is the heavy standard for ACFT?

The heavy standard for the ACFT requires soldiers to achieve higher scores, particularly in strength-oriented events, reflecting the physical demands of MOS classified as “heavy.” Specific score requirements can vary and are published in official Army documentation.

Useful Video: Equality Training FAIL – Army to Change Standard for Men & Woman (ACFT)

References:

1. https://taskandpurpose.com/news/congress-tells-army-increase-fitness-standards/
2. https://acftcalculator.net/female-acft-standards-army-combat-fitness-test/
3. https://www.operationmilitarykids.org/army-combat-fitness-test-acft-standards/
4. https://www.militaryonesource.mil/military-basics/new-to-the-military/the-army-combat-fitness-test/
5. https://themilitarywallet.com/acft-standards