Army Combat Fitness Test (ACFT) Instructions For Graders

This comprehensive test was designed to better prepare soldiers for the physical demands of combat and to ensure that they possess the necessary fitness levels to perform their duties effectively. This case study examines the implementation, structure, and implications of the ACFT, as well as its impact on soldier performance and readiness. The Army Combat Fitness Test (ACFT) was introduced in 2019 as a new standard for assessing the physical fitness of soldiers in the U.S.

Soldiers must hang from a pull-up bar and bring their knees to their elbows. Graders must count each successful repetition, ensuring that the soldier’s legs are fully extended at the start and that the knees touch the elbows at the top. Leg Tucks: The leg tuck assesses core strength.

This segment assesses grip strength, core stability, and overall endurance. Carry Section: After completing the drag, athletes must carry two kettlebells (or similar weights) for another 20 meters. The weights should be manageable yet challenging, often set between 35 to 70 pounds each.

This includes recording the number of repetitions completed, weights lifted, and times achieved. Documentation: Accurate record-keeping is essential. Graders should document each soldier’s performance immediately after each event to avoid discrepancies.

Understanding the new benchmarks and striving to exceed them will not only enhance individual performance but also contribute to the overall readiness of the unit. Moreover, it is essential for soldiers to set personal fitness goals based on the anticipated changes in scoring. Soldiers should take advantage of available resources, such as training programs, fitness assessments, and mentorship from experienced peers, to optimize their preparation for the ACFT.

Female soldiers must lift weights ranging from 140 to 340 pounds, depending on their age and fitness level. The scoring for the deadlift is as follows:
- 140 lbs: 60 points
- 180 lbs: 70 points
- 220 lbs: 80 points
- 260 lbs: 90 points
- 300 lbs: 100 points
- 340 lbs: 100+ points Deadlift: This event measures lower body strength.

Commanders will also have access to aggregated data, enabling them to identify trends and areas where additional training resources may be needed. Soldiers will be provided with specific insights into their performance, allowing them to identify areas for improvement. This feedback will be crucial for personal development and will help soldiers create targeted training plans to enhance their physical capabilities. The 2026 ACFT scoring will also likely incorporate a more detailed feedback mechanism.

Drag Time (10 meters): The time taken to complete the drag portion is also measured in seconds. Carry Time (20 meters): The time taken to carry the kettlebells is crucial for assessing grip strength and core stability. Return Sprint Time (20 meters): This final sprint time reflects the athlete's recovery ability and overall stamina. This time indicates upper body strength and endurance. Sprint Time (20 meters): Measured in seconds, this time reflects the athlete's speed and explosiveness.

The ACFT consists of six events: the deadlift, standing power throw, hand-release push-up, sprint-drag-carry, leg tuck, and two-mile run. Each event is scored based on performance, with points allocated on a scale that reflects the soldier's age and gender. The ACFT Points Calculator serves as a tool to convert raw scores from these events into a composite score, allowing for a more comprehensive evaluation of a soldier's physical capabilities.

The scoring is:
- 1 tuck: 60 points
- 2 tucks: 70 points
- 3 tucks: 80 points
- 4 tucks: 90 points
- 5 tucks: 100 points Female soldiers must perform leg tucks within a two-minute time frame. Leg Tuck: This assesses core strength.

Its structured lane layout and detailed afct scoring guide make it an effective tool for trainers and athletes alike. The Sprint-Drag-Carry (SDC) is a comprehensive fitness assessment that provides valuable insights into an athlete's physical capabilities. As fitness standards continue to evolve, the SDC remains a relevant and challenging test for all levels of athletes. By understanding and implementing the SDC, individuals and teams can enhance their training programs, track progress, and ultimately improve their performance in various physical activities.

Hand-Release Push-Ups: This event tests upper body endurance. Soldiers must perform push-ups while lifting their hands off the ground at the bottom of each repetition. Graders need to ensure that soldiers maintain a straight body line and that the chest touches the ground.

This approach acknowledges that not all soldiers face the same physical challenges and allows for a more equitable assessment of fitness. This system will categorize soldiers based on their military occupational specialty (MOS) and the physical demands associated with their specific roles. One of the most significant changes anticipated in the 2026 scores is the introduction of a tiered scoring system. For instance, combat arms soldiers may have different scoring requirements compared to support or administrative roles.