Scoring & Standards
What happens if I fail one event but pass the others?
If you fail any single event (score below 60 points), you fail the entire Army Fitness Test, regardless of your performance on other events or total score.
Important: Each event requires a minimum of 60 points. There are no exceptions or waivers for this requirement.
You will need to retake the entire AFT, not just the failed event, according to your unit's retesting policy.
What's the difference between combat and general standards?
The Army has two distinct standards for the AFT:
General Standard (300 points minimum):
- Applies to combat-enabling specialties
- Age and gender-normed scoring
- 60 points minimum per event
Combat Standard (350 points minimum):
- Applies to 21 designated combat specialties
- Sex-neutral, age-normed scoring
- 60 points minimum per event
- Effective January 1, 2026 (Active Duty)
How do I qualify for body fat standard exemption?
To earn exemption from Army body fat standards, you must achieve:
- Total Score: 465 points or higher
- Per Event: 80 points or higher on each event
- Consistency: Maintain this performance on consecutive tests
This exemption recognizes exceptional fitness and eliminates the need for height/weight measurements and body fat calculations.
Events & Equipment
What equipment is used for each AFT event?
Each AFT event uses specific, standardized equipment:
- Maximum Deadlift: 60-pound hex bar with weight plates
- Hand-Release Push-ups: No equipment required
- Sprint-Drag-Carry: 90-pound sled and two 40-pound kettlebells
- Plank: No equipment required
- Two-Mile Run: Measured outdoor course
All equipment must meet official Army specifications and be properly calibrated.
Can I practice with the same equipment used in testing?
Yes, and it's highly recommended. Most Army fitness facilities have AFT equipment available for training:
- Hex bars (also called trap bars) for deadlift practice
- Kettlebells for carry training
- Sleds for drag practice
- Measured tracks for run training
Training with official equipment helps you become familiar with the feel and technique required for optimal performance.
What's the proper form for hand-release push-ups?
Hand-release push-ups require strict form standards:
Starting Position:
- Plank position with hands under shoulders
- Body in straight line from head to heels
- Feet together or up to 12 inches apart
Movement:
- Lower body until chest touches ground
- Lift hands completely off ground
- Replace hands and push up to starting position
- Arms must fully extend at top
Any deviation from this form results in a "no count" for that repetition.
Training & Preparation
How long should I train before taking the AFT?
Training timeline depends on your current fitness level:
Beginner (new to fitness): 12-16 weeks
Intermediate (some fitness background): 8-12 weeks
Advanced (already fit): 4-8 weeks for event-specific practice
Focus on:
- Building base fitness first
- Learning proper form for each event
- Progressive overload training
- Event-specific practice 4-6 weeks before testing
Should I train differently for combat vs general standards?
Yes, combat soldiers need enhanced training focus:
Combat Standard Requirements:
- 50 additional points above general standard
- Sex-neutral standards mean higher requirements for some events
- Greater emphasis on strength and power development
Combat soldiers should prioritize:
- Heavy strength training for deadlift
- High-volume push-up training
- Anaerobic power for sprint-drag-carry
- Extended core endurance for plank
Policy & Regulations
How often do I have to take the Army Fitness Test?
AFT frequency depends on several factors:
Standard Schedule:
- Minimum twice per year for all soldiers
- Tests must be 4-6 months apart
- Additional tests for promotion consideration
- Make-up tests if you fail
Additional Testing Situations:
- Return from profile or medical limitations
- Assignment to new duty position
- Special duty or school requirements
- Commander discretion for unit readiness
Can I appeal my AFT score if I disagree?
Yes, you have the right to appeal your AFT score through proper channels:
Appeal Process:
- Submit written appeal within 24-48 hours
- Appeal goes to unit commander
- Commander reviews with Master Fitness Trainer
- May result in retest or score adjustment
Valid grounds for appeal include:
- Improper equipment or calibration
- Incorrect scoring procedures
- Environmental factors affecting performance
- Grader error or bias
Calculator & Technical Questions
Is this calculator accurate for official scoring?
Our calculator uses official Army scoring standards as of 2025, but has important limitations:
For Training & Estimation Only:
- Not for official record keeping
- Simplified scoring algorithms
- Representative examples, not complete tables
For official AFT scores: Always use certified Army personnel, official equipment, and current Army publications (AR 600-9, FM 7-22).
Do you store my fitness data or personal information?
No, we prioritize your privacy:
- All calculations happen in your browser
- No fitness data sent to our servers
- No personal information stored
- No tracking of individual performance
Your test data remains completely private and is only used for the calculation you request.
Why are some scoring values simplified or estimated?
Complete official AFT scoring tables are extensive and contain hundreds of precise values. Our calculator provides:
- Representative scoring examples for understanding
- Interpolated values between known data points
- Simplified algorithms for quick estimation
For precise official scoring, consult your unit's Master Fitness Trainer or official Army publications.
Related Resources
AFT Calculator
Calculate your Army Fitness Test score using official standards
Training Guide
Expert training plans and strategies for all AFT events
Official Standards
View AFT requirements and scoring standards by age and gender
Complete Score Tables
Detailed scoring tables for all events and age groups
AFT vs ACFT Changes
Understand what changed in 2025 and how it affects you
Contact Support
Get help or report issues with the calculator
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