Apart from regular PT exercises you’ll be required to complete during your time in the military, you’ll also need to participate in regular physical fitness tests, regardless of what branch you’re in. These tests ensure you’re still eligible for service and can meet the work requirements of your military contact. Learn more about military PT tests, the requirements for each branch, and how you can prepare for your upcoming test.

What Is a Military Physical Fitness Test?

A military physical fitness (PT) test is meant to test the overall physical fitness of our troops, which includes their endurance, stamina, muscular strength, agility, and other elements. These tests are critical in ensuring that our service members are still fit for service throughout their careers. In fact, if you fail too many PT tests, you could be recommended for separation from the military.

What Are the PT Requirements for Each Branch of the Military?

Each branch of the military has specific exercises and standards for their PT tests, which ensures service members are capable of performing at the level necessary for the work they do. Learn more about the specific requirements for each branch so you can better prepare for future PT tests:

Army

The Army’s PT test, also called the Army Combat Fitness Test (ACFT), helps improve soldier and unit readiness and uses the following exercises:

●3 Repetition Maximum Deadlift

●Two-Mile Run

●Sprint-Drag-Carry

●Standing Power Throw

●Hand Release Push-Up

●Plank

Each of these exercises has specific requirements, including weight or time limits. You’ll be scored on your performance for each exercise and will need to meet the minimum scores to pass the test. Soldiers will need to take the ACFT at least once a year. If you want to become a Ranger or Green Beret, you’ll have to meet even more strict requirements.

Navy

The Navy has the Navy Physical Readiness Test, which occurs twice during the fiscal year and includes height, weight, and body-fat measurements. You’ll need to complete timed:

●Push-Ups

●Forearm Plank

●1.5-Mile Run

You can also replace the 1.5-mile run with a timed 500-yard swim, a timed 2000-meter row on a rowing machine, a 12-minute stationary bike ride, or a 12-minute elliptical cardio workout.

Similar to the Army, you’ll be scored on your performance and will need to reach a minimum standard to pass.

Marines

If you’re considering joining the Marines, you’ll have to undergo the Initial Strength Test. This test will require you to complete certain exercises within a set time frame or range, including:

●1.5-Mile Run

●40 Second Plank

●Push-Ups or Pull-Ups

The Marines use a standard fitness test for all their recruits, which sets standards they must maintain throughout their military career. This test requires Marines to complete a 3-mile run, double what was required as an applicant. You will also need to meet a minimum requirement for planks, push-ups, or pull-ups like you would in the Initial Strength Test.

The Marines also use the Combat Fitness Test (CFT), which measures Marine’s physical capabilities for combat. During this test, you’ll be asked to complete combat-related tasks, such as:

●Maneuver Under Fire

●Ammunition Can Lifts

●Movement to Contact

Like other military PT tests, you’ll need to meet minimum requirements during both the standard fitness test and the CFT to maintain your service eligibility. If you fail one PT test, you’re generally allowed to retest to meet the requirements.

Air Force

Before you can join the Air Force, you must pass a fitness test involving sit-ups, push-ups, and a 1.5-mile run. Once you’ve joined, you’ll need to pass an annual fitness test, but you’ll be able to choose from exercises or events to participate in. You can choose between:

●A timed 1.5-mile run or the beep test

●Standard push-ups or hand-release push-ups

●Cross-leg reverse crunches, traditional sit-ups, or the plank pose

If you want to join the Special Warfare units, you’ll have to pass additional tests in training to ensure you’re fit for these positions.

Coast Guard

The fitness test you must take in the Coast Guard will be dependent on your job requirements. For example, rescue swimmers in the Coast Guard must be able to complete a 12-minute swim among other exercises to ensure they can perform their duties. Some exercises in the tests apply to all Coast Guard members, including push-ups, sit-ups, and a 1.5-mile run.

How to Prepare for a Military PT Test

When you’re in the military, you’ll want to take measures to ensure you pass your PT tests so you remain eligible for service. Here are some tips to help you prepare for your upcoming PT test:

1. Focus On Your Endurance

Endurance plays a significant role in PT tests, but it takes time to develop. Don’t wait until you’re due for your next test to find out how much endurance you have. Instead, start training well beforehand so you can increase your endurance over time. Take advantage of the resources available to you, including fitness centers or swimming pools.

2. Create a Fitness Plan

You should exercise regularly so your PT tests become a breeze. But you don’t want to work out without a plan. Create a unique fitness plan specific to the requirements of your branch’s PT test, and start training about six weeks before your upcoming test. You should keep track of your progress so you know where you can improve.

3. Train With a Friend

It’s a lot easier to work out when you have someone to support you. The encouragement and motivation you gain from a friend can help you stick to your workout schedule so you can more easily pass your next PT test.

4. Test Yourself

Since you’ll know what requirements you need to meet for your PT test, you can start testing yourself a few weeks before. Ideally, you’ll want to test yourself weekly to see where you land. If you notice you’re falling behind, consider changing your fitness plan so you can improve your score.

5. Prepare Before the Test

In the days approaching your PT test, you’ll want to prepare so you can perform your best. Some things you should do in the days leading up to the test include:

●Staying hydrated, especially in the hours before the test.

●Resting two days before the test so you don’t test with sore muscles.

●Eating a good meal the night before.

●Eating a light meal the morning of your test.

●Warm up just before your test to prevent injury.

Find the Gear Your Need From MLC

When you’re preparing for your PT test, you might need something like a rucksack to help you build your endurance and stamina. And obviously, you’ll need even more gear for the rest of your military operations. The good news is that Military Luggage Company has your six.

We offer a wide selection of military gear and equipment, including backpacks, rucksacks, duffles, garment bags, kit bags, and more. Choose from our comprehensive selection for each branch, or contact us with any questions!